Ex-MLB star Brian Matusz's cause of death revealed after first-round draft pick was found dead at 37
Former Major League Baseball pitcher and first-round draft pick Brian Matusz's cause of death has been revealed.
Matusz, who was drafted No 4 overall by the Baltimore Orioles in 2008, was found dead at his Arizona home at the age of 37 on January 6.
It has now been revealed that Matusz likely died from a drug overdose, according to a Phoenix police report obtained by The Baltimore Banner.
Matusz was reportedly discovered by his mother, Elizabeth, who is said to have 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 had reportedly been redacted in the police report. Police said there were no signs of foul play.
Matusz's death is still under investigation and his remains were recovered by the Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner, police said. The case is currently sealed at the petition of his family.
Brian Matusz was found dead at his Arizona home at the age of 37 on January 6
The former pitcher likely died from a drug overdose, according to a police report
His mother told police that leading up to his death, Matusz had made comments such as 'there is nothing left for me' and that he used to 'have it all,' according to the report.
Elizabeth is said to have taken her son to the emergency room on January 4 - two days before his death - but the reason for the visit was redacted.
He was reportedly treated and discharged six hours later and was advised to seek help from a mental health professional. His parents are said to have taken him to Banner Behavioral Health Hospital in Scottsdale, Arizona the following day but Matusz was not admitted.
Elizabeth reportedly told police that Matusz had a history of substance use but had been clean for around eight months. She said that her son used alcohol 'only lightly' and did not use tobacco.
She is said to have gone to Matusz's house on January 6 after being unable to reach him via phone. She had to enter the property through a bathroom window after receiving no response and found him cold to the touch on a couch. She called police at around 2:45pm local time.
Matusz spent seven years in Baltimore after being drafted by the Orioles in 2008. In 2016 he moved on 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 on the coaching staff of Baseball New Zealand for the World Baseball Classic, operating at the team's Bullpen Coach in 2022.
In a statement on social media, MLB said: 'We are devastated to learn of the passing of former Major League pitcher Brian Matusz.'
After Baltimore, Matusz moved on to Chicago where he played for the Cubs for a season
The Orioles shared an image on X of Matusz visiting sick children in 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.
'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.'
Matusz pitched 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 .408 OPS.
For support regarding mental health or substance abuse call or text 988 or visit 988LifeLine.org.
