Ex-MLB star Brian Matusz’s cause of death revealed after first-round draft pick was found dead at 37
The cause of death of former Major League Baseball pitcher and first-round draft pick Brian Matusz has been revealed.
Matusz, who was drafted No. 4 overall by the Baltimore Orioles in 2008, was found dead at his home in Arizona on Jan. 6 at the age of 37.
It has now been revealed that Matusz likely died of a drug overdose, according to a police report obtained by Phoenix The Baltimore flag.
Matusz was reportedly discovered by his mother, Elizabeth, who allegedly found drug paraphernalia on the floor near his body and a white substance in his mouth, police said.
The name of the substance is currently unknown as it was reportedly included in the police report. Police said there were no signs of foul play.
Matusz’s death remains under investigation and his remains have been recovered by the Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner, police said. The case is currently under seal at the request of his family.
Brian Matusz was found dead in his Arizona home on January 6 at the age of 37
According to a police report, the former pitcher likely died of a drug overdose
His mother told police that in the lead-up to his death, Matusz had made comments such as “there’s nothing left for me” and that he “had everything,” the report said.
Elizabeth reportedly took her son to the emergency room on January 4 – two days before his death – but the reason for the visit was blacked out.
He was reportedly treated and discharged six hours later and told to seek help from a mental health professional. His parents were supposed to take him to Banner Behavioral Health Hospital in Scottsdale, Arizona, the next day, but Matusz was not admitted.
Elizabeth reportedly told police that Matusz had a history of substance use but had been clean for about eight months. She said her son used alcohol “only lightly” and no tobacco.
She reportedly went to Matusz’s house on January 6 after being unable to reach him by phone. She had to enter the property through a bathroom window after receiving no response and found him cold to the touch on a sofa. She called the police around 2:45 p.m. local time.
Matusz spent seven years in Baltimore after being drafted by the Orioles in 2008. In 2016, he moved to the Chicago Cubs, before finishing his career in the Mexican League and then with the Long Island Ducks in the ALPB in 2019.
Most recently, he was part of Baseball New Zealand’s coaching staff for the World Baseball Classic, serving as the team’s Bullpen Coach in 2022.
In a statement on social media, MLB said, “We are devastated by the passing of former Major League pitcher Brian Matusz.”
After Baltimore, Matusz moved to Chicago, where he played one season for the Cubs
The Orioles shared an image on X of Matusz visiting sick children at the hospital in Baltimore
The Orioles, meanwhile, also shared their own tribute, writing: “Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz.
“Brian was a fixture in our clubhouse from 2009 to 2016 and was loved throughout Birdland, and his passion for baseball and our community was unparalleled. He dedicated his time to connecting with every fan he could, was a beloved teammate and always had a smile on his face.”
Matusz appeared in 280 regular season games during his career and was a crucial part of Buck Showalter’s bullpens.
He is fondly remembered in Baltimore for his battles with David Ortiz, holding the Red Sox legend to a .138 average and a .408 OPS.
For mental health or substance abuse support, call or text 988 or visit 988LifeLine.org.