Ex-Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz dead at 37

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Brian Matusz, a former MLB pitcher who played for the Baltimore Orioles for most of his career, has died. He was 37.

The Orioles made the announcement on Tuesday in a post on social media.

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Baltimore Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz, #17, reacts after giving up a two-run home to Tampa Bay Rays left fielder Matt Joyce in the sixth inning at Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore on June 29, 2014. (Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports)

"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," the team said.

"Brian’s family and loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time."

The Orioles selected the Colorado native in the first round of the 2008 MLB Draft out of the University of San Diego. He made his major league debut in August 2009 against the Detroit Tigers, going five innings with five strikeouts and getting the win.

He became a full-time starter in 2010 and finished fifth in American League Rookie of the Year voting after he recorded 143 strikeouts and a 10-12 record in 32 starts.

Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Brian Matusz, #17, pitches during the sixth inning against the New York Yankees at Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore on June 14, 2015. (Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports)

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He missed two months of the 2011 regular season and by 2012 he was demoted to the bullpen.

Matusz played