**Chito Martinez, Belize’s Only MLB Player, Passes Away at 59**
**Meta Description:** Chito Martinez, the first and only Major League Baseball player from Belize, has died at the age of 59, leaving behind a legacy in the sport.
**URL Slug:** chito-martinez-belize-mlb-player-dies
Chito Martinez, the only Major League Baseball player to represent Belize, has passed away at the age of 59, as confirmed by the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday. Martinez played as an outfielder for the Orioles from 1991 to 1993, participating in 158 games throughout his career. He recorded a batting average of .259, with 18 home runs, 58 RBIs, and 22 doubles.
The Orioles expressed their condolences in a post on social media, stating, “We mourn the passing of former Orioles outfielder Chito Martinez, the only native of Belize to play in the majors.”
Martinez’s son, Dalton, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, revealing that his father passed away unexpectedly on Easter Sunday. “Sunday night on Easter, my dad was taken away off this earth unexpectedly,” he wrote. “We desperately need help in this time. My father was one of the best men. He taught the game of baseball the right way and guided young men to be better. His presence in my life can never be replaced. As I pick up the pieces to my life, please consider helping.”
The cause of death has not been disclosed. Chito Martinez was selected in the sixth round of the 1984 MLB Draft by the Kansas City Royals after graduating from Brother Martin High School in New Orleans. After being released by the Royals in 1990, he signed with the Orioles shortly thereafter. Following the 1993 season, he was released by the Orioles and later joined the Minnesota Twins, although he did not make any appearances with the team.
Chito Martinez’s legacy as a trailblazer for Belizean athletes in baseball will be remembered by fans and players alike.
**FAQ**
**What was Chito Martinez’s contribution to baseball?**
Chito Martinez was the first and only MLB player from Belize, playing for the Baltimore Orioles from 1991 to 1993 and leaving a lasting impact on the sport and aspiring athletes from his home country.
