Pirates 'deeply concerned' after kidnapping of Elias Diaz's motherThe mother of Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Elias Diaz has been kidnapped in Venezuela, according to multiple reports.
The Pirates issued a statement Thursday saying, "We are all shocked and deeply concerned for Elias' mother, as well as for Elias and his entire family. ... We are using all of the resources available at the Pirates and Major League Baseball to support Elias and his family during this incredibly difficult time. ...
According to the Venezuelan website Meridiano, Diaz's mother was kidnapped in San Francisco, in the state of Zulia, on Thursday afternoon. One of Diaz's brothers was in the home when the abduction occurred, according to the report.
Kidnapping has been a significant concern in Venezuela. Some baseball players have been forced to move their families from Venezuela, and many hire security to protect those still in country.
In 2009, the mother of pitcher Victor Zambrano was kidnapped, and that same year, Yorvit Torrealba Jr., the son of Rockies catcher Yorvit Torrealba, and his uncle were kidnapped. Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos was kidnapped in 2011, rescued by commandos who swept into his captors' mountain hideout. ...
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