Police say Brian Matusz’s cause of death was most likely a drug overdose

Ex Baltimore Orioles A police report indicates that pitcher Brian Matusz likely died of a drug overdose.

Phoenix Police Department, in report obtained by the Baltimore Bannersaid Matusz was found dead in his Arizona home on January 6 by his mother, who came to check on him. The report states that Matusz’s body was found on a couch in the attic, with a white substance in his mouth and drug paraphernalia on the floor nearby.

The Orioles announced the death of the former No. 4 overall selection on January 7 at the age of 37.

“Brian was the backbone of our club from 2009-2016. He was beloved throughout Birdland and his passion for baseball and our community was unmatched,” the Orioles said in a statement.

The left-hander began his career in Baltimore as a starter before transitioning to a reliever during the 2012 season. He found success in the bullpen and appeared in seven playoff games for the Orioles during the 2012 and 2014 seasons.

University of San Diego’s standout collegiate pitcher, Matusz, was selected fourth overall in the 2008 MLB draft behind Tim Beckham (Rays), Pedro Alvarez (Pirates) and Eric Hosmer (Royals).

He reached the majors the following year, and in 2010, he made 32 starts for Baltimore, finishing fifth in AL Rookie of the Year voting.

He played in 279 games for the Orioles over parts of eight seasons, posting an ERA of 4.85. However, he was much more effective as a reliever, with an ERA of 3.47 in 171 innings.

Matusz has had particular success throughout his career against Boston Red Sox great David Ortiz. The Hall of Fame DH allowed just four hits in 29 at-bats (.138 average) against him with 13 strikeouts and one walk.

Suicide Support: If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, help is available. Call or text the US National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or speak with a trained counselor at 988lifeline.org.