URGENT UPDATE: Former MLB catcher Jesús Montero, known for his time with the New York Yankees and Seattle Mariners, has tragically died at the age of 35 following a devastating traffic accident in Venezuela. The accident occurred on October 4, 2023, when Montero’s motorcycle collided with a truck. He had been hospitalized in critical condition since the incident.
Officials confirmed the news on Sunday, leading to a wave of grief across the nation. The Venezuelan Professional Baseball League expressed their sorrow, stating, “Venezuelan baseball sadly bids farewell to Jesús Montero… leaving behind a legacy of effort and passion for the game.” Fans and fellow players took to social media to pay tribute, mourning the loss of a beloved athlete who inspired countless young players.
Montero’s career in Major League Baseball spanned from 2011 to 2015. He played 18 games for the Yankees in 2011 and went on to appear in 208 games with the Mariners. Over his brief career, he recorded a batting average of .253, hit 28 home runs, and drove in 104 RBIs.
His journey, however, was not without controversy. In 2016, while part of the Toronto Blue Jays minor league system, Montero faced a 50-game suspension for testing positive for a banned stimulant. This was his second suspension related to anti-doping violations, following a similar ban in 2013.
Throughout his career, Montero also made a significant impact in the Venezuelan Winter League, playing six seasons with teams like Navegantes del Magallanes, Cardenales de Lara, and Águilas del Zulia. He announced his retirement after the 2020-2021 season, leaving behind a legacy that resonates deeply within the baseball community.
As news of his passing spreads, the emotional response continues to grow, highlighting Montero’s influence on the sport and his home country. Fans and fellow athletes alike are remembering him not just for his achievements, but for the passion he brought to the game and the inspiration he provided to aspiring players.
Authorities will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, as the nation comes to terms with the loss of a cherished athlete. Montero’s memory will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of many, as baseball fans and players honor his contributions to the sport.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as more details emerge.
