A promising young pitcher has reportedly pleaded guilty to a lesser charge linked to human smuggling in Arizona and has decided to voluntarily return to Mexico.
Humberto Cruz, a pitching prospect for the San Diego Padres, admitted to accepting money for transporting undocumented individuals within the U.S. He was legally in the country on a work visa when he was caught driving a vehicle with two undocumented passengers. Initially, Cruz drove south on Interstate 85 in Lukeville, Arizona but was later seen heading north with two others in the car. Authorities thought it was unlikely he could have made it to the port of entry in time.
As reported, Cruz is likely to forfeit his 10-year work visa but could reapply in five years if he complies with good behavior requirements.
In a statement, Cruz expressed deep regret for his actions, acknowledging that he had disappointed many. He took responsibility, recognizing the impact on his teammates and fans, and promised to learn from this experience. His aim is to rebuild the trust that has been lost.
Cruz had responded to advertisements for drivers, tempted by easy money, and acknowledged in court that he was aware of the illegal nature of his actions. He pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge, resulting in a 30-day jail sentence, for which he received credit for time already served.
The plea agreement indicated that deportation was almost guaranteed. The Padres had placed Cruz, who joined from Monterrey, Mexico for $750,000 in February 2024, on a restricted list earlier this year.
Prior to his legal issues, Cruz underwent Tommy John surgery last August and was working to recover at the team’s facility when he was arrested. He had previously started 14 games in minor leagues, posting a 7.58 ERA and ranking as the fifth-best prospect in the organization, particularly among pitchers.
The Padres have not commented on this situation.
