After the U.S. military operation to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro this weekend, the Orioles have confirmed the safety of their Venezuelan players and staff members.
The U.S. attacked Caracas and other sites in Venezuela early Saturday morning.
Like many Major League Baseball organizations, Baltimore has multiple players and staff members from Venezuela. Top-30 prospects Keeler Morfe and Aron Estrada were born and raised there. It’s unclear whether they remain in the South American country.
“We have been in touch with our players and staff from Venezuela, and all are safe,“ said Jennifer Grondahl, the Orioles’ senior vice president of communications. “We will continue to monitor the situation as we get closer to spring training and take the necessary steps to ensure their safe travel to Sarasota.”
Orioles spring training begins next month in Florida.
Venezuela’s vice president, Delcy Rodriguez, said Venezuelan civilians and members of the military were killed, according to the Associated Press. Rodriguez did not specify the number. President Donald Trump said some U.S. forces were injured but none died.
The Venezuelan Winter League is ongoing, and at least one Orioles player is competing there. Right-hander Simon Leandro, a 23-year-old reliever, is playing for Leones del Caracas in the capital. Former Orioles infielder Liván Soto, who’s currently a free agent, is also on that team.
Right-hander Jean Pinto, whom the Orioles lost to the Houston Astros in the Triple-A phase of the 2024 Rule 5 draft, is also in Venezuela playing for Tigres de Aragua.
The immediate future of Venezuela is uncertain. Trump said the U.S. plans to “run” the country.