Sarasota, Florida – The baseball world is reeling from the sudden and heartbreaking news that Luis Guevara, a promising 19-year-old minor league infielder for the Baltimore Orioles, has tragically passed away following a jet ski accident in Sarasota, Florida. The young Venezuelan talent, on the cusp of his dream of reaching Major League Baseball, met an untimely end, leaving a void in the Orioles organization and the hearts of all who knew him.
The incident occurred on Sunday, June 15, 2025, off the coast of Lido Key in Sarasota. According to reports from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the accident involved a head-on collision between two personal watercrafts, each carrying two individuals. All four occupants were ejected into the water. While good Samaritans swiftly came to their aid, helping them to shore, the injuries sustained by Guevara proved fatal. He was hospitalized, but ultimately succumbed to his injuries, with the Orioles confirming his devastating passing on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
Orioles General Manager Mike Elias issued a somber statement, expressing the profound grief felt throughout the organization. “Luis was a beloved member of our organization, and we are devastated following his tragic passing,” Elias said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and teammates, and we ask for their continued privacy during this difficult time.” The gravity of the situation prompted the Orioles to postpone their Florida Complex League games on Monday and Tuesday, allowing players and staff to process the immense loss.
Born in Tinaco, Venezuela, Luis Guevara was a talent the Baltimore Orioles had high hopes for. He was signed as an international free agent in January 2023, embarking on his professional baseball journey in the Dominican Summer League (DSL) with the DSL Orioles during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. This year, 2025, marked a significant step in his burgeoning career as he made his stateside debut, showcasing his skills across various minor league levels.
Guevara had appeared in 30 games this season, demonstrating his versatility and potential. He played 24 games with the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds, four with the Florida Complex League (FCL) Orioles, and even saw brief action in two games with the Double-A Chesapeake Baysox. His offensive profile, characterized by strong bat-to-ball skills and a steady switch-hitting approach, had positioned him as a promising leadoff candidate within the Orioles’ farm system. While his career stats were still developing, his passion for the game and dedication to his craft were undeniable.
The FWC’s investigation into the precise circumstances of the jet ski crash is ongoing. The baseball community, from fellow minor league prospects to seasoned veterans, has united in mourning the loss of a young life with so much promise. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, even for those at the peak of their athletic prowess.
Luis Guevara’s death leaves a profound impact, not just on the Baltimore Orioles and his family in Venezuela, but on the entire landscape of youth baseball. His journey from Tinaco to the professional ranks was a testament to his dedication and skill. As the Orioles organization grieves, the memory of Luis Guevara, a bright young star extinguished too soon, will undoubtedly serve as a somber reminder of the preciousness of every life and every dream pursued on the diamond. The thoughts of the baseball community remain with his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
