Luis Guevara, 19-year-old Baltimore Orioles minor league player, dies following jet ski crash

Luis Guevara, a promising 19-year-old infielder for the Baltimore Orioles' minor league system, tragically passed away following a jet ski accident near Lido Key in Sarasota County, Florida. The incident, which was classified as a "vessel incident" by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), occurred when two jet skis collided head-on, resulting in four individuals being thrown into the water. While two of the passengers sustained minor injuries, Guevara and another person were transported to a local hospital, where Guevara ultimately succumbed to his injuries on the same day. The FWC has stated that the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is ongoing, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the need for further clarity regarding the events that led to this tragic outcome.

The Baltimore Orioles organization expressed their deep sorrow over Guevara's untimely death, emphasizing the impact he had on his teammates and the wider community. Mike Elias, the executive vice president and general manager of the Orioles, shared heartfelt condolences via a statement on social media, describing Guevara as a cherished member of the team. He extended thoughts and prayers to Guevara's family, friends, and teammates, requesting privacy for them during this challenging time. Guevara had joined the Orioles as an international free agent in January 2023, and this season marked his first foray into U.S. baseball. He had played in 30 games across different leagues, showing potential in his early career. His prior experience included two seasons with the DSL Orioles in the Dominican Republic, and he was seen as a rising talent within the organization, making his sudden loss all the more poignant for those who knew him and followed his career.