Houston Astros’ Humberto Quintero expresses concern over Wilson Ramos kidnapping in Venezuela
The kidnapping of Washington Nationals’ catcher Wilson Ramos in Venezuela has stirred immense concern in the baseball circles. Hailing from Venezuela, the catcher was kidnapped on Wednesday, November 9 that has alarmed other players of the native country
as well.
On Friday, Houston Astros’ catcher Humberto Quintero expressed his concern over the issue and stated that for players like him it had become dangerous to play in native countries.
Not only that, he referred to the safety concerns that top the priority of several players before playing in the countries known for their volatility. Quintero himself has not appeared in the Winter Leagues in Venezuela for the last three years.
However, the most astounding element of Ramos’ kidnapping is that he is the first high-profile big league player who has met this fate.
"I'm surprised because it had never happened with the big league players," Quintero said. "It's always been the family and stuff like that. I know in my country it's not safe, and that's why not too many players go to Venezuela and play."
In 2002, it was, Richard Hidalgo, the former Houston Astros’ right-fielder, who sustained injury in his left forearm when he was carjacked. It was this reason that prompted the players belonging to Venezuela to have increased security when they travel to
their native country.
"Some people live there and some people live in the U.S.," Quintero said. "When we go over there, we have to be careful when we do anything. It's bad. It's bad for our country."
It is worth mentioning here that the team like the Houston Astros have a number of players who are currently busy playing in Venezuela. From pitcher Sergio Perez, to second baseman Jose Altuve, there are players who are in the country right now.
Quintero expressed his severe displeasure with how the player’s security was not seriously paid attention to. He was of the view that he always had to remain careful whenever in Venezuela. The team management hopes that the issue is resolved and Wilson Ramos
returns safely.
Tags: