Brian Matusz, University of San Diego Standout Who Played 8 Years in MLB, Dies at 37

Brian Matusz , described as the most accomplished pitcher in University of San Diego baseball history, has died.

He was 37.

The former Baltimore Orioles family announced his death Tuesday, USD said in a news release.

Matusz played for the Toreros from 2006 to 2008 and during his final season led the NCAA in strikeouts (141) while posting a 1.71 ERA, which ranks fourth all-time in USD single-season history.

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...

pic.twitter.com/wNN3WkO8l4 That same year, he was named the West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Year, a Louisville Slugger First-Team All-American, while becoming the programs all-time career leader in strikeouts with 396.

Known for his dominance on the mound, Matusz tied the programs single-game strikeout record with 17 in a win against Harvard on March 22, 2008.

He also became the first Torero to be named a finalist for the prestigious Golden Spikes Award, given annually to the nations top amateur baseball player.

His achievements helped propel San Diego to its highest-ever national ranking of No.

4 in 2008.

Wow.

Just wow.

RIP to a good friend and teammate.

We had some amazing times on and off the field.

Rest easy my friend.

Wow.

pic.twitter.com/3Z0sg0KUZC After his standout collegiate career, Matusz was picked fourth overall by the Baltimore Orioles in the 2008 MLB draft.

At the time, the pick was the highest ever for a Torero by a big-league team.

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He went on to enjoy an eight-year career in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Orioles, where he served as a starter and reliever, including helping Baltimore reach the postseason in 2012, 2014 and 2016.

He also had brief stints with the Braves and Cubs.

The Orioles, in a statement, said Brian was beloved throughout Birdland, and his passion for baseball and our community was unmatched.

A native of Cave Creek, Arizona, Matusz was known for his leadership, work ethic and dedication to teammates and coaches.

USD Associate Vice President and Executive Director of Athletics Kimya Massey said Matusz heart, passion, and genuine love for the game and his teammates was always felt and will be missed.

San Diego baseball head coach Brock Ungricht called Matusz one of the best players to ever wear a Torero uniform.

His dedication to the USD community and passion for the game of baseball were evident to all who knew him, Ungricht said.

Brians unexpected passing leaves a void in our hearts, but his legacy will continue to inspire us, both on and off the field.

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