Former Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz likely died from drug overdose, police say

The cause of death of former Baltimore Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz likely is a drug overdose, The Baltimore Banner reported Tuesday.

A report from the Phoenix Police Department, obtained by the publication, said Matusz was found dead in his home there on Jan. 6 with drug paraphernalia near his body and with a white substance in his mouth.

His mother found his body when she went to his home after being unable to reach him, per the report.

Matusz was 37.

The Orioles selected Matusz with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2008 draft. The left-hander posted a 27-41 record with a 4.85 earned-run average in 279 career games (68 starts) with the club.

"A staple in our clubhouse from 2009-16, Brian was beloved throughout Birdland, and his passion for baseball and our community was unmatched," the Orioles said in a statement issued Jan. 7. "He dedicated his time to connecting with any fan he could, was a cherished teammate and always had a smile on his face."

Matusz was traded to Atlanta in May 2016 but was released one week later. He joined the Chicago Cubs and pitched three innings against the Seattle Mariners on July 31, 2016, his final appearance.