Pirates catcher Elias Diaz’s mother kidnapped in Venezuela
Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Elias Diaz’s mother was kidnapped in Venezuela, according to Venezuelan media outlets.
According to Venezuelan website Meridiano, Diaz’s mother was kidnapped in the town of San Francisco.
Venezuelan journalist Mari Montes posted the news of his mother’s kidnapping on Twitter.
Confirmado, secuestraron a la madre del grandeliga Zuliano de los Piratas de Pittburgh, Elías David Soto Diaz, en San Francisco, Estado Zulia. #Venezuela #MLB #Inseguridad pic.twitter.com/dD7VSxksQu
— Mari Montes ⚾️ (@porlagoma) February 8, 2018
“We are all shocked and deeply concerned for Elias’ mother, as well as for Elias and his entire family,” Pirates president Frank Coonelly said in a statement. “We have Elias’ mom and Elias’ entire family in our prayers. We are using all of the resources available at the Pirates and Major League Baseball to support Elias and his family during this incredibly difficult time. As we work with authorities on his mom’s safe return, we will withhold further comment and ask that you please respect the family’s need for privacy.”
Diaz is a former Bradenton Marauder, playing a full season with the Florida State League team in 2013.
Jason Dill: 941-745-7017, @Jason__Dill
This story was originally published February 8, 2018 at 5:19 PM with the headline "Pirates catcher Elias Diaz’s mother kidnapped in Venezuela."