Former Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz has tragically passed away at the age of 37, with a drug overdose suspected as the cause of death, according to a Phoenix police report obtained by the Baltimore Banner.
Matusz was found deceased in his home by his mother, Elizabeth, on January 6. Police reported that a white substance was found in his mouth, and drug paraphernalia was discovered near his body.
Elizabeth informed authorities that her son had struggled with substance abuse in the past and had recently expressed feelings of hopelessness, including statements like “there is nothing left for me.” She had taken Matusz to the emergency room on January 4, though the specifics of his visit were redacted in the police report. Afterward, Elizabeth took him to the Banner Behavioral Health Hospital in Scottsdale, but he was not admitted.
Also Read – How Canada’s 2025 Carbon Rebates Will Impact Your Wallet
A death investigation is ongoing, with further details being withheld at the request of the family.
Matusz, a native of the Phoenix area, had been a standout pitcher at the University of San Diego, which led to his selection by the Orioles as the No. 4 overall pick in the 2008 MLB Draft. Although he showed promise early in his career, Matusz never fully reached the expectations that the Orioles had for him. Over his nine-season career, he posted a 27-41 record with a 4.92 ERA. His final Major League Baseball appearance came in 2016 with the Chicago Cubs.
In 2019, Matusz made an attempt at a comeback with the Long Island Ducks in the Atlantic League.
Elizabeth also told police that her son had recently expressed regret, mentioning how he used to “have it all.” Former Orioles teammate Jerry Hairston Jr., who had become friends with Matusz after both retired, shared his thoughts on the challenges athletes face post-retirement, particularly when such a life-altering change happens at a young age.
“It’s so hard for players,” Hairston told the Banner, reflecting on the emotional struggles athletes face after their careers end. “When you’re used to having a schedule all your life and then it just abruptly ends, you’re left trying to figure out your purpose in life.” Hairston added that Matusz had been excited about the future, making his sudden death even more shocking. “For his life to be cut short at 37 years of age, it’s just crushing. I was devastated. The world lost an incredible human being.”
Also Read – Everything You Need to Know About Canada Post’s Stamp Price Increase
Matusz’s passing has left those who knew him heartbroken, with tributes pouring in from former teammates and friends who remember him as a kind and talented individual.
