The cause of death of former Major League pitcher and first-round draft pick Brian Matusz has been revealed.
Matusz, who was drafted fourth overall by the Baltimore Orioles in 2008, was found dead at his home in Arizona at the age of 37 on January 6.
It has now been revealed that Matusz likely died of a drug overdose, according to a Phoenix police report obtained by The Baltimore flag.
Matusz was reportedly discovered by his mother, Elizabeth, who allegedly found drug paraphernalia on the ground 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 Medical Examiner's Office, police said. Currently the case is closed at the request of his family.
Brian Matusz was found dead in his Arizona home at the age of 37 on January 6.
Former pitcher likely died of drug overdose, police report says
His mother told police that before his death, Matusz had made comments such as “I have nothing left” and that he used to “have everything,” according to the report.
Elizabeth reportedly took 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 released six hours later and was advised to seek help from a mental health professional. His parents reportedly took 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 consumed alcohol “only lightly” and did not use tobacco.
She is said to have gone to Matusz's home on January 6 after being unable to reach him by phone. She had to enter the property through the bathroom window after receiving no response and found him cold to the touch on a sofa. He called the police around 2:45 pm 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 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.”
After Baltimore, Matusz moved to Chicago, where he played for the Cubs for one season.
The Orioles shared an X-ray image of Matusz visiting sick children at a Baltimore hospital
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.
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.
For help regarding mental health or substance abuse, call or text 988 or visit 988LifeLine.org.