The uncertain situation in Venezuela has begun to have direct repercussions in the Major League Baseball (MLB), where several teams are actively monitoring the whereabouts and status of Venezuelan players who were in the country during the off-season.
One of the MLB clubs most attentive to the development of events are the Milwaukee Brewers, who confirmed that they are unaware of the current situation of three of their Venezuelan players: outfielder Jackson Chourio, infielder Andruw Monasterio and catcher Jeferson Quero. According to Matt Arnold, president of baseball operations of the franchise, the organization has not been able to establish direct communication with them following reports of airport closures and mobility restrictions in the South American country.
Venezuelan MLB players still under monitoring
Chourio, one of MLB’s top young players, was active in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League (LVBP) with Águilas del Zulia.
Team with which he played a prominent role in the playoffs, including a decisive home run in extra innings on January 2.
Monasterio also participated in the local postseason with Caribes de Anzoátegui.
Meanwhile, Quero played with Cardenales de Lara to stay in competitive rhythm.
Monitoring is not limited to those three players.
According to local media reports, pitcher Angel Zerpa was in Venezuela at the time of his trade to the Brewers in December.
Their current status remains unconfirmed publicly.
In contrast, catcher William Contreras, also Venezuelan, resides outside the country during the winter break.
Giants also keep watch
The monitoring is not limited to those three players
QuéOnnda.com
The San Francisco Giants face a similar situation.
The organization has active players in the LVBP.
Among them are outfielder Luis Matos, who plays for Tiburones de La Guaira, and player Jesús Rodríguez, a member of Tigres de Aragua.
Rodriguez has confirmed that he is safe and in communication with the team.
Although he remains in Venezuela due to the airspace closure, awaiting instructions.
In addition, the Giants have several Venezuelan prospects in the minor leagues with whom the player development department maintains regular contact.
Senior development director Kyle Haines said the club has been able to communicate with most of the staff and players, who have taken shelter in their homes while the situation evolves.
For MLB, this type of scenario underscores the importance of international monitoring.
Especially in countries that have historically been one of the main talent pools for professional baseball.
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