What you need to know
Former Seattle Mariners and New York Yankees player Jesus Montero has died two weeks after being involved in a motorcycle accident. He was 35 years old.
Following Montero’s death on Sunday, Oct. 19, the Yankees paid tribute to the late MLB star in a post on X, writing, “The Yankees are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jesus Montero. We send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Montero was riding his motorcycle near the city of Valencia on October 4 when he was hit by a truck. The accident left Montero in critical condition, with “multiple leg fractures, several broken ribs, and significant lung and organ damage,” according to a GoFundMe created by his loved ones on Oct. 6.
“Jesus is not only a great athlete, but also a kind, generous and big-hearted person,” his family wrote at the time. “Those who knew him understand his strength and fighting spirit, but today he needs our help to continue fighting off the field.”
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In an Oct. 16 update, the Montero family shared that the athlete remains in the intensive care unit continuing dialysis.
“He recently underwent surgery to stabilize his leg, which was successful, but he still needs to undergo chest surgery, which is complicated but necessary for his recovery,” they wrote. “We know we have a long road ahead of us, but we trust in his strength and all the love and support you have shown us.”
Montero appeared in two All-Star Futures games as a minor league prospect and made his major league debut with the Yankees in 2011, appearing in 19 games with the Yankees and helping them win the AL East Division.
Montero joined the Mariners along with pitcher Hector Noesi as part of a four-player trade in 2012, and hit 24 home runs and had 92 RBIs in 208 games as catcher, first baseman, and designated hitter.
Although he did not play in the majors after playing his last major league game in October 2015, he played with the Toronto Blue Jays and Baltimore Orioles, and then played in the Venezuelan Winter League through the 2020-2021 season.
Montero finished his career with a .253 batting average and 28 home runs in 226 games.
