Brian Matusz, the left-handed pitcher who has become a cherished figure in Baltimore Orioles history, has died at the age of 37. The team confirmed his passing on Tuesday night, though the cause of death was not disclosed.

The Orioles released a heartfelt statement, saying, “Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz. A staple in our clubhouse from 2009-2016, Brian was beloved throughout Birdland, and his passion for baseball and our community was unmatched” (HuffPost).

Initially drafted by the Angels in 2005, Matusz opted to play college baseball at the University of San Diego. He was later selected fourth overall by the Orioles in the 2008 MLB Draft after being named a standout pitcher. He made his MLB debut in 2009 and established himself as a capable starter before transitioning to a relief pitcher by 2012, a pivotal year that saw the Orioles return to the postseason after a lengthy absence.

During his eight years with the Orioles, Matusz accumulated 279 appearances and held an ERA of 4.85, becoming known for his skill in pressure situations, particularly in the postseason. He later played a brief stint with the Chicago Cubs, where he made his final MLB appearance in 2016 (USA Today).

Matusz's legacy is not solely defined by his statistics; he was often recognized for his dedication to fan engagement, described as “always having a smile on his face.” His impact on the community and the game has left an enduring mark, as expressed in numerous tributes following his passing. His former coach at USD cited him as “one of the best players to ever wear a Torero uniform.” The Baltimore Orioles and the University of San Diego have both expressed their condolences to Matusz’s family during this challenging time (see The Guardian, AP News).