Former Baltimore Orioles Left-Handed Pitcher Brian Matusz Dies at 37
A Beloved Figure in the Baseball Community
Brian Matusz, the left-handed pitcher who spent eight seasons in the major leagues and made his final big-league appearance with the Chicago Cubs during their 2016 World Series championship season, has died. He was 37.
A Career Spanning Eight Seasons
Matusz, a former No. 4 overall draft pick by the Baltimore Orioles, spent most of his career with the team that drafted him. He made his MLB debut with the Orioles in 2009 and was a starter until shifting to the bullpen down the stretch in 2012. That was the season Baltimore earned a wild card for its first postseason appearance in 15 years.
A Memorable Stint with the Chicago Cubs
Matusz spent his entire career with the Orioles until he was traded to the Atlanta Braves early in the 2016 season. The Braves soon released him, and he signed in mid-June with the Cubs. His only appearance with the North Siders came in a game Cubs fans will long remember.
Matusz started against the Seattle Mariners on July 31, 2016, at Wrigley Field and was touched up for six runs in three innings. But the Cubs offense and their bullpen had Matusz’s back, as they rallied from the 6-0 deficit with three runs in the bottom of the ninth to tie the game and send it to extras.
A Final Appearance with a Memorable Finish
With the bases loaded, one out, and Jason Heyward on third base in the bottom of the 12th, the pitcher’s spot was due up for the Cubs. They were out of options and sent up starting pitcher Jon Lester to pinch-hit. In one of the more memorable moments of many that season, Lester laid down a perfect bunt, scoring Heyward for a wild 7-6 victory.
So although he didn’t get a decision, the Cubs won the only game Matusz ever started for them. And that turned out to be his final big-league appearance.
A Tribute to a Beloved Figure
The Orioles and the University of San Diego announced Matusz’s death Tuesday night, with USD saying it received word from Matusz’s family. They did not announce a cause of death.
“Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole Brian Matusz,” the Orioles said. “A staple in our clubhouse from 2009-2016, Brian was beloved throughout Birdland, and his passion for baseball and our community was unmatched. He dedicated his time to connecting with any fan he could, was a cherished teammate, and always had a smile on his face.”
A Legacy That Will Be Remembered
Matusz became a free agent following the 2016 season and signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks, who released him early in the 2017 season before he made an appearance for them.
The Orioles drafted Matusz with the fourth overall pick in 2008 out of San Diego.
“Brian was one of the best players to ever wear a Torero uniform,” San Diego coach Brock Ungricht said. “His dedication to the USD community and passion for the game of baseball were evident to all who knew him. Brian’s unexpected passing leaves a void in our hearts, but his legacy will continue to inspire us, both on and off the field. We will forever be grateful for his friendship and unwavering support of San Diego baseball.”
FAQs
Q: What was Brian Matusz’s cause of death?
A: The cause of Matusz’s death was not announced by his family or the teams he played for.
Q: How long did Brian Matusz play in the major leagues?
A: Matusz played in the major leagues for eight seasons (2009-2016).
Q: Where did Brian Matusz make his final big-league appearance?
A: Matusz made his final big-league appearance with the Chicago Cubs in 2016.
