Former Major League pitcher and first-round draft pick Brian Matusz has died at the age of 37.
The shocking news was revealed by the league on Tuesday night, and tributes immediately began pouring in for the former Orioles and Cubs star.
Matusz was drafted fourth overall by the Orioles in 2008 and played for the team for seven years.
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 on Baseball New Zealand's coaching staff for the World Baseball Classic, operating in 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 Baseball pitcher Brian Matusz.”
Meanwhile, the Orioles also shared their own tribute, writing: “Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole Brian Matusz.
'Brian, a staple in our clubhouse from 2009-2016, was loved throughout Birdland and his passion for baseball and our community was unmatched. “He dedicated his time to connecting with any fan he could, he was a beloved teammate and always had a smile on his face.”
The cause of death has not yet been announced.
Matusz pitched in 280 regular season games during his career and was a crucial part of Buck Showalter's bullpen.
He is fondly remembered in Baltimore for his battles with David Ortiz, holding the Red Sox legend to a .138 average and .408 OPS.