FORMER Chicago Cubs star Brian Matusz has died at the age of 37.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the world of baseball for the late MLB pitcher.
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Matusz, from Colorado, died on Tuesday morning, and his cause of death currently remains unknown.
He was best known for playing for the Baltimore Orioles and Chicago Cubs.
He joined the Orioles in 2008 and played for the team for seven years.
Matusz pitched in 279 games for the Baltimore side.
During his time in Baltimore, he pitched for two of the Orioles post-season teams in 2012 and 2014.
Then, he signed for the Chicago Cubs in 2016.
Matusz’s career saw him enjoy spells in the Mexican baseball league and played for the Long Island Ducks.
MLB bosses have issued a statement in light of his death.
“We are devastated to learn of the passing of former Major League pitcher Brian Matusz,” they said in a statement on X.
And the Baltimore Orioles, another of Matusz’s former teams, also issued their own tribute.
“Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz,” they said.
“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.”
‘UNMATCHED PASSION’
Matusz played baseball while in high school and was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in 2005.
But, he decided to go to the University of San Diego and enjoyed huge success.
In 2008, he was named the West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Year.
Fans have paid their own tributes to the late baseball star.
MLB blogger Dan Clark said he had heard hundreds of tales about Matusz helping those less fortunate.
“This was both during and after his MLB career,” he wrote on X.
“A genuinely great person taken far too soon.”
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