THE Baltimore Orioles have announced the death of top prospect Luis Guevara.
The 19-year-old was killed in a jet-ski crash on Sunday in Sarasota, Florida.
Baltimore Orioles prospect Luis Guevara was killed in a jet ski accident[/caption]
Guevara was a quick riser in the Orioles’ minor league system[/caption]
Guevara was involved in a head-on collision with another jet ski off the coast of Lido Key.
The crash took place around 8 pm local time and sent two other people to the hospital.
“Luis was a beloved member of our organization, and we are devastated following his tragic passing,” Orioles general manager Mike Elias said in a statement.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and teammates, and we ask for their continued privacy during this difficult time.”
Guevara was signed as an international free agent in 2023 and was playing his first professional season in the US this year.
He made 30 appearances with the Orioles‘ minor league teams this year, with most coming at Single-A Delmarva.
Guevara played four games in the Florida Complex League, 24 at Single-A, and two at Double-A.
He was a quick riser in the Orioles’ farm system, and could have been on track to make it to Major League Baseball in just a few years.
Orioles fans flocked to social media to share condolences for Guevara’s family and the team.
“He was just a kid… damn. RIP and prayers for his family,” one fan said.
“This is Truly heartbreaking. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family,” another fan said.
“Awful news to hear, may he rest in peace,” a third fan said.
“Very unfortunate to hear prayers to his family and teammates affected by the loss,” a fourth fan said.
“Praying for his family and friends. Devastating news always especially someone so young,” a fifth fan said.
Guevara had a career .281 batting average in the minor leagues with 49 RBI and 44 stolen bases.
He had yet to hit his first professional home run.
The Baltimore Orioles are currently 31-41 and in last place in the American League East.
After making it to the playoffs in the last two seasons, the team has regressed heavily after minimal investment in the offseason.
The future isn’t bright for the team either, as their once powerhouse farm system now has just one top-100 prospect.
It is likely the Orioles will be sellers at the trade deadline this year.
