Tragedy struck the baseball world on September 18 when Baltimore Orioles minor league pitcher Miguel Gonzalez died after a car accident in the Dominican Republic. He was 21 years old.

Gonzalez was signed as an international free agent by the Orioles in 2014, and had spent the last three seasons playing in the Dominican Summer League.  Over those seasons he appeared in 38 games (13 starts) and compiled a 7.65 ERA.

According to Orioles academy director Felipe Alou Jr., Gonzalez was returning home after visiting his girlfriend, when he then hit a truck that had lost control.  Gonzalez survived initially, but was not able to recover, and died a few days later.

“Our organization is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Miguel Gonzalez,” executive vice president Dan Duquette said in a statement. “Miguel was beloved by his teammates and coaches in the Dominican Republic. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this very difficult time.“

Unfortunately, car accidents in the Dominican Republic resulting in deaths of pro baseball players has become a common occurrence for Major League Baseball (MLB) over the past couple years.  Other recent deaths of players in the Dominican Republic include Kansas City Royals pitcher Yordano Ventura last January, Cleveland Indians third baseman Andy Marte also last January and St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Oscar Taveras in 2014.  This is a growing concern for the MLB, and a reason why many fans feel that Dominican born players should move to the United States full time once they become professionals.

The 21 year old Gonzalez is in no way related to current Texas Rangers pitcher Miguel Gonzalez who also used to play for the Orioles.

Orioles fan and sophomore David Tuszynski gave his thoughts on passing of Gonzalez.

“It’s a shame that a young promising prospect’s life was taken from him.  And that he never got to show the world his talent,” Tuszynski said.