Former Major League Baseball player Jesús Montero, once a top prospect for the Seattle Mariners, has died at the age of 35 following a motorcycle accident in Venezuela.
Venezuelan media reported that Montero was riding a motorcycle when he was struck by a pickup truck two weeks ago near the city of Valencia. He was hospitalized and reportedly intubated, but succumbed to his injuries earlier this week.
The New York Yankees confirmed Montero’s death on Sunday with a tribute post on X, writing: “The Yankees are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jesús Montero. We send our sincerest condolences to his family & loved ones.”
Montero, who would have turned 36 in late November, signed with the Yankees out of Venezuela in 2006 at just 17 years old. He made his major league debut with the Yankees in 2011, appearing in 18 games before being traded to the Mariners in a deal that involved pitcher Michael Pineda.
He spent parts of four seasons with Seattle, appearing in 208 games. Montero’s most productive season came in 2013, when he batted .260 with 15 home runs and 62 RBI while splitting time as a designated hitter and catcher. However, struggles with defensive duties, injuries, and a 50-game suspension for violating baseball’s drug program hindered his career.
Montero also made headlines during a 2014 rehab assignment with Single-A Everett after a memorable altercation involving a scout and an ice cream sandwich delivered to the dugout.
After leaving the major leagues, Montero continued to play professionally in Venezuela, most recently appearing for Águilas del Zulia during the 2020–2021 season. Montero is survived by family, friends, and fans mourning his passing both in the U.S. and Venezuela.