Famous Puerto Rican Baseball Players

Roberto Clemente was a Puerto Rican professional baseball player who played 18 seasons in Major League Baseball for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He was primarily a right fielder and was known for his exceptional batting skills and defensive prowess. Clemente was a 15-time All-Star, a 2-time World Series champion, and a 12-time Gold Glove Award winner. He had over 3,000 hits and maintained a batting average over .300 for 13 seasons. Clemente was also involved in charity work in Latin American and Caribbean countries, demonstrating his commitment to helping others.

Yadier Molina is a former professional baseball catcher known for his exceptional defensive skills, winning numerous awards for his blocking ability and caught-stealing percentage. He spent his entire 19-year career with the St. Louis Cardinals, where he became a key player in the team's success, making multiple playoff appearances and winning two World Series championships. Molina also represented Puerto Rico in four World Baseball Classic tournaments. He retired as one of the greatest catchers of all time, setting records in putouts and Defensive Runs Saved.

Carlos Correa is a talented Puerto Rican professional baseball shortstop who has played for the Houston Astros and Minnesota Twins in Major League Baseball. He made his MLB debut in 2015 and quickly established himself as a standout player, winning accolades such as the AL Rookie of the Year Award and multiple All-Star selections. Throughout his career, Correa has showcased his skills on the field, earning awards like the Gold Glove and Platinum Glove. Despite facing challenges with free agency, he remains a prominent figure in the baseball world.

Javier Báez, known as "El Mago," is a professional baseball shortstop for the Detroit Tigers. He began his career with the Chicago Cubs, where he played for eight years before joining the New York Mets in 2021. Báez is a two-time All-Star, Gold Glove Award and Silver Slugger Award winner. He was named co-MVP of the National League Championship Series in 2016, helping the Cubs win the World Series that year. Báez also represents the Puerto Rican national team and was featured on the cover of MLB The Show 20.

Carlos Iván Beltrán is a Puerto Rican former professional baseball outfielder who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1998 to 2017 for various teams. Beltrán was named American League (AL) Rookie of the Year in 1999 and was a nine-time MLB All-Star. He won three Gold Glove Awards and two Silver Slugger Awards. Beltrán is known for his impressive offensive and defensive skills, achieving milestones such as 400 home runs, 300 stolen bases, and high success in base stealing. He retired after winning a World Series title with the Houston Astros in 2017.

Iván Rodríguez Torres, known as "Pudge" and "I-Rod," is a former MLB catcher widely recognized as one of the greatest in history. Throughout his career, he played for various teams including the Texas Rangers, Florida Marlins, Detroit Tigers, New York Yankees, Houston Astros, and Washington Nationals. Rodríguez earned the AL MVP award in 1999, won the 2003 World Series with the Marlins, and set a record for most games caught in 2009. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in 2017 and will be honored in the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 2024. Additionally, he served as a Shadow Representative from Puerto Rico post-retirement.

Jose Alexander Cora is a Puerto Rican baseball manager and former infielder known for his tenure with various MLB teams. He played for 14 seasons with teams like the Red Sox, Dodgers, Indians, Mets, Rangers, and Nationals. After retiring as a player, Cora became the bench coach for the Houston Astros during their 2017 World Series win. He then managed the Red Sox, achieving a franchise-best 108 wins and winning the 2018 World Series. Despite being implicated in a sign-stealing scandal, Cora later returned to manage the Red Sox.

Francisco Lindor, known as "Mr. Smile," is a professional baseball shortstop for the New York Mets in MLB. He previously played for the Cleveland Indians. Lindor is a talented right-handed thrower and switch hitter. He has excelled both offensively and defensively, earning multiple awards like All-Star selections, Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Awards. Lindor was a top prospect for the Indians and joined the 30-30 club in 2023. Born in Puerto Rico, he moved to Florida and was drafted in the first round in 2011.

Enrique José Hernández González, known as Kike, is a versatile professional baseball player for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Major League Baseball. He has also played for the Houston Astros, Miami Marlins, and Boston Red Sox. Hernández was drafted by the Astros in 2009 and made his MLB debut in 2014. Throughout his career, he has showcased his flexibility by playing every position except catcher, with a focus on the outfield and second base. Hernández was a key player in the Dodgers' 2020 World Series win and has been recognized with Fielding Bible Awards in 2020 and 2021.

Roberto Alomar Velázquez was a Puerto Rican second baseman who played in MLB for sixteen seasons, primarily with the Toronto Blue Jays. He was known as one of the greatest second basemen, winning multiple Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Awards. Alomar excelled in various statistical categories among second basemen and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2011 as a Blue Jays player. Despite his successful career, he was later banned from baseball in 2021 due to allegations of sexual misconduct.

Bernabé Williams Figueroa Jr. is a former professional baseball player who had a successful 16-year career with the New York Yankees, winning four World Series championships. He was known for his consistency, postseason heroics, and defensive skills as a center fielder. Williams was a five-time All-Star, won multiple awards, and is considered one of the greatest switch-hitting center fielders in history. After retiring from baseball, he pursued a music career as a classically trained guitarist and has released two jazz albums, receiving a Latin Grammy nomination in 2009.

Jorge Posada is a former professional baseball catcher who played 17 seasons in MLB for the New York Yankees. A switch hitter, he was a five-time All-Star, won five Silver Slugger Awards, and was on four World Series championship teams. Originally drafted as an infielder, Posada transitioned to catcher in the minor leagues. Known for his solid hitting, he was a key player in the Yankees lineup, contributing to their success as part of the "Core Four." Posada retired in 2011 after a successful career.

Juan Alberto González Vázquez is a Puerto Rican former baseball outfielder who played 16 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) for four teams, most notably the Texas Rangers. He was known as one of the premier run producers and feared hitters of the 1990s and early 2000s, hitting over 40 home runs five times and amassing at least 100 runs batted in eight times. González had a career batting average of .310 or higher in five seasons and was recognized as a line drive hitter with a strong ability to bring runners home.

Orlando Cepeda, known as "the Baby Bull" and "Peruchin," was a Puerto Rican first baseman in Major League Baseball from 1958 to 1974. Playing primarily for the San Francisco Giants, he was an 11-time All-Star and consistent power hitter in the National League. Cepeda won the NL Rookie of the Year award in 1958 and was a league leader in various offensive categories. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999 after a successful career with multiple teams.

Bengie Molina is a former MLB catcher who played for the Anaheim Angels, Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, and Texas Rangers. He won a World Series ring with the Angels in 2002 and received Gold Glove awards in 2002 and 2003. After playing, Molina served as a coach for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Rangers. He also worked as a color commentator on the Spanish language radio broadcast for the Cardinals. Known for his defensive skills and game-calling abilities, Molina had a successful career in professional baseball.

José Molina is a Puerto Rican professional baseball manager and former catcher in Major League Baseball (MLB). Known for his skills in pitch-framing and managing pitching staffs, Molina won two World Series championships during his MLB career. He played for four teams in MLB and also represented Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic. Molina comes from a baseball family, with his two brothers also having played catcher in MLB, making them the only trio of brothers in MLB history to all win World Series rings.

Carlos Delgado had a successful professional baseball career spanning from 1993 to 2009 primarily with the Toronto Blue Jays, where he achieved significant accolades such as winning the 2000 AL Hank Aaron Award, leading the AL in RBIs in 2003, and being a two-time AL All-Star and three-time Silver Slugger Award winner. Delgado holds the MLB record for career home runs by a Puerto Rican player and set numerous team records with the Blue Jays. He also played for the Florida Marlins and New York Mets and was honored with the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award in 2006. Delgado was elected to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015.

Eddie Rosario is a Puerto Rican professional baseball left fielder for the Atlanta Braves in Major League Baseball (MLB). He previously played for the Minnesota Twins, Cleveland Indians, and Washington Nationals. Rosario was selected by the Twins in the 2010 MLB draft. Despite a suspension for using a banned substance in 2013, he made a strong debut in 2015. Rosario was named NLCS MVP and won the World Series with the Braves in 2021. He has also represented Puerto Rico in multiple World Baseball Classic tournaments.

Christian Vázquez is a Puerto Rican professional baseball catcher currently playing for the Minnesota Twins in MLB. He began his career with the Boston Red Sox in 2014, where he was part of the 2018 World Series-winning team before being traded to the Houston Astros in 2022. Vázquez played a crucial role in the Astros' 2022 World Series victory, catching the third no-hitter in postseason history and the second in World Series history during the series.

José Berríos, known as "La Makina," is a talented Puerto Rican professional baseball pitcher. He currently plays for the Toronto Blue Jays in Major League Baseball (MLB), having previously been with the Minnesota Twins. Berríos was chosen by the Twins in the first round of the 2012 MLB draft. With a strong pitching arm and impressive skills on the mound, Berríos has made a name for himself as a reliable and skilled player in the league, drawing attention for his consistency and performance.

Javier "Javy" López Torres is a former catcher in Major League Baseball who played for the Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles, and Boston Red Sox. Known for batting and throwing right-handed, he enjoyed a successful career spanning from 1992 to 2006. López was recognized as Ponce, Puerto Rico's Athlete of the Year for four consecutive years from 1984 to 1987, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport. Throughout his professional tenure, he made significant contributions to the teams he played for, leaving a lasting impact on the baseball community.

Benito Santiago Rivera was a highly accomplished professional baseball player, known for his exceptional skills as a catcher in Major League Baseball. He enjoyed a successful 20-season career, with significant contributions to the San Diego Padres, earning multiple prestigious awards including four Silver Slugger Awards and three Gold Glove Awards. Santiago's reputation as a five-time All-Star and premier NL catcher solidified his legacy in the sport. His outstanding performance led to his induction into the San Diego Padres Hall of Fame in 2015.

José Cruz Dilan, known as "Cheo," is a former professional baseball player, coach, and baseball front office executive. He played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1970 to 1988, primarily with the Houston Astros. Cruz was a two-time All-Star and won two Silver Slugger Awards. He was a key player in leading the Astros to their first division title and postseason berth. Cruz excelled at hitting, leading the National League in hits in 1983. He also served as the Astros' first base coach and is currently a community outreach executive for the team.

Sam Parrilla Monges was a Puerto Rican professional baseball left fielder and pinch hitter who played for the Philadelphia Phillies in Major League Baseball in 1970. He also had a successful career in Minor League Baseball from 1963 to 1972. Known for his skills on the field, Parrilla made significant contributions to the sport during his time as a player. His talent and dedication earned him a place in the history of baseball, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

Roberto Pérez is a Puerto Rican professional baseball catcher who has had a successful career in Major League Baseball (MLB). He played college baseball before being drafted by the Cleveland Indians in 2008. Pérez made his MLB debut in 2014 and has also played for the Pittsburgh Pirates and San Francisco Giants. Known for his exceptional defensive skills, Pérez has won multiple Gold Glove Awards, Fielding Bible Awards, and was honored as the Wilson Defensive Player of the Year in 2019.

Danny Tartabull had a successful career as a professional baseball player, primarily as a right fielder and designated hitter. He played for six different teams over 14 seasons in Major League Baseball. Tartabull started with the Seattle Mariners before moving on to the Kansas City Royals, New York Yankees, Oakland Athletics, Chicago White Sox, and Philadelphia Phillies. Throughout his career, he showcased his skills as a versatile player and contributed to his teams with his hitting and fielding abilities.

Martín Maldonado is a Puerto Rican professional baseball catcher and free agent. He has played for various MLB teams, including the Milwaukee Brewers, Los Angeles Angels, Houston Astros, Kansas City Royals, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago White Sox. Maldonado debuted in 2011 with the Brewers and has received accolades such as a Gold Glove and a Fielding Bible Award. Known for his defensive skills, he has been praised for his contributions to the Astros' pitching success, including catching multiple no-hitters and winning a World Series championship in 2022.

Cándido Maldonado Guadarrama is a retired Puerto Rican Major League Baseball outfielder known for his career spanning from 1981 to 1995. He played for several teams including the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, Cleveland Indians, Milwaukee Brewers, Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs, and Texas Rangers. Maldonado earned the nickname "Candyman" from ESPN analyst Chris Berman. He made history by hitting the first game-winning hit outside the United States in World Series play and was the sole Giant to hit a triple in the 1989 World Series.

Retired Puerto Rican baseball player Roberto Clemente Jr. transitioned into a successful career as a baseball broadcaster following a promising start as a player. Son of MLB legend Roberto Clemente Sr., he emulated his father's path until injuries forced his early retirement. Clemente Jr. then pivoted to sportscasting, coaching, and engaging in charitable endeavors, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the world of baseball both on and off the field.

Ángel Pagán is a Puerto Rican former professional baseball outfielder who played in Major League Baseball for the Chicago Cubs, New York Mets, and San Francisco Giants. He started his MLB career with the New York Mets before being traded to the Chicago Cubs and then back to the Mets. In 2011, he was traded to the San Francisco Giants. Pagán primarily played as a center fielder but transitioned to left field in 2016 during his career in the MLB.

Geovany Soto is a Puerto Rican former professional baseball catcher known for his 13-season career in Major League Baseball (MLB). He made a significant impact with the Chicago Cubs, earning recognition as the National League Rookie of the Year in 2008 and making an appearance in the MLB All-Star Game. Throughout his career, Soto also played for other notable teams such as the Texas Rangers, Oakland Athletics, Los Angeles Angels, and Chicago White Sox, showcasing his skills and versatility as a catcher.

Victor Caratini is a Puerto Rican professional baseball catcher known for his versatile skills and ability to play for multiple MLB teams. He currently plays for the Houston Astros, having previously showcased his talents with the Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, and Milwaukee Brewers. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 215 pounds, Caratini is recognized for his right-handed throwing and switch-hitting capabilities. His career is marked by consistent performance and adaptability, making him a valuable asset to any team he plays for.

José Carlos Montoyo Díaz is a former professional baseball second baseman and coach, with a successful career in Major League Baseball (MLB). He managed the minor league Durham Bulls for eight seasons before joining the Tampa Bay Rays as a coach. In 2018, he became the manager of the Toronto Blue Jays, leading the team for several seasons. Following his tenure with the Blue Jays, he was named bench coach of the Chicago White Sox in November 2022.

Rubén Sierra García is a former MLB outfielder who enjoyed a successful career spanning over 20 seasons. He played for multiple teams including the Texas Rangers, Oakland Athletics, New York Yankees, Detroit Tigers, Cincinnati Reds, Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago White Sox, Seattle Mariners, and Minnesota Twins. Sierra also briefly signed with the Cleveland Indians but was released before the season began. Throughout his career, Sierra showcased his talent and versatility as an outfielder, leaving a lasting impact on the teams he played for.

Sandy Alomar Jr. is a retired professional baseball player, coach, and manager. He had a successful career as a catcher in Major League Baseball, playing for various teams including the Cleveland Indians, San Diego Padres, Chicago White Sox, Colorado Rockies, Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and the New York Mets. Alomar was a six-time All-Star player and won two American League pennants during his time with the Cleveland Indians. He was inducted into the Cleveland Indians Hall of Fame in 2009 for his contributions to the team.

Edwin Orlando Díaz Laboy is a Puerto Rican professional baseball pitcher known for his time with the Seattle Mariners and the New York Mets in Major League Baseball (MLB). Díaz quickly made an impact in MLB, setting records for consecutive strikeouts and becoming the Mariners' closer. He has received numerous accolades, including finishing fifth in AL Rookie of the Year voting, leading the AL in saves in 2018, being named an All-Star, and earning the AL Reliever of the Year award.

Edwin Gabriel Ríos is a Puerto Rican professional baseball player who primarily plays as a third baseman and first baseman. He has played in Major League Baseball for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs. Ríos initially played college baseball for Florida International University before being drafted by the Dodgers in the sixth round of the 2015 MLB draft. He made his MLB debut in 2019. Currently, he is a part of the Cincinnati Reds organization, showcasing his talent and skills in the field.

Alex Cintrón is a retired professional baseball infielder from Puerto Rico. He played in Major League Baseball for several teams, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago White Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and Washington Nationals. After his playing career, Cintrón transitioned into a coaching role and currently serves as the hitting coach for the Houston Astros. With a wealth of experience as a player and now as a coach, Cintrón continues to contribute to the success of the Astros and the development of their players.