Reyes Moronta, a former Major League Baseball pitcher known for his stints with the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants, tragically passed away in a traffic accident on Sunday, July 28. He was 31 years old.
Reports indicate that the accident occurred in Santiago province, Dominican Republic, near his father’s home, as detailed by ESPN and Sports Illustrated, citing Dominican news source El Pregonero.
The Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) and the Mexican Baseball League (Liga Mexicana de Beisbol) have confirmed Moronta’s death and expressed their condolences through statements on X (formerly Twitter).
“The baseball community is deeply saddened by the news of Reyes Moronta’s death,” the MLBPA posted. “Our heartfelt sympathies are with his family, friends, and everyone who knew him.”
The Mexican Baseball League also conveyed its sorrow, stating, “We extend our deepest condolences to Reyes Moronta’s family, friends, and former teammates.”
Born in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, in 1993, Moronta began his professional career with the San Francisco Giants, signing as an international free agent in 2010. He made his MLB debut in 2017 and became a prominent relief pitcher for the Giants, appearing in 136 games until 2021.
After undergoing shoulder surgery in 2019 and missing the 2020 season, Moronta joined the Los Angeles Dodgers in March 2022, playing in 22 games before a brief stint with the Los Angeles Angels this past season.
Most recently, Moronta was with Bravos de León in the Mexican league, but he was released from the team on July 25. The Bravos de León expressed their regret over his passing, wishing comfort to his loved ones.
The San Francisco Giants remembered Moronta as a player with a warm spirit, with the team stating, “His presence will be missed, and our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Moronta’s untimely death has shocked the baseball community, with many reflecting on his contributions to the sport and the impact he had on those who knew him.
