Venezuelan Baseball Star Anthony Santander Emerges from Humble Beginnings

From Non-Baseball Fan to MLB Outfielder

Baltimore Orioles right fielder Anthony Santander has defied expectations, rising from a non-baseball fan to a rising star in the Major Leagues. Growing up in Maturin, Venezuela, soccer captivated Santander's attention until a friend encouraged him to try baseball at age 15.

A Journey to the Orioles

Despite his late start, Santander quickly developed into a formidable player. In 2011, he signed with the San Diego Padres as an international free agent. After playing in the Padres' minor league system, he was traded to the Orioles in 2018.

In Baltimore, Santander has blossomed into a key contributor. He has notched double-digit home runs in each of his seasons with the Orioles, including 20 in the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign. His strong performance has earned him a spot in the Venezuelan national team, with which he won a bronze medal in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.