Ethan Salas Debuts for Padres, Adding to Venezuela’s MLB Milestones

Ethan Salas joined Venezuela’s growing list of Major League Baseball players, making his debut for the San Diego Padres at age 20 years and 93 days.

The catcher started sixth in the lineup but went hitless in four plate appearances, striking out twice. His appearance made him the 523rd Venezuelan to play in the major leagues and the sixth-youngest Venezuelan position player to debut.

Only Fred Manrique, Remy Hermoso, Andrés Eloy Blanco, Jackson Chourio and Miguel Cabrera were younger among Venezuelan position players when they first appeared in North American baseball. Salas earned his opportunity after roster expansion on Sept. 1, following frequent attention from the Padres organization as it tracked his development.

The debut came in a 7-3 loss to Cincinnati, the Reds’ second straight home victory over San Diego. Juan Brito, Héctor Rodríguez and JJ Bleday homered for Cincinnati. Brito hit a three-run home run, while Bleday went 3-for-4 and drove in two runs.

Ty France homered and drove in two runs for San Diego. Venezuelan Eugenio Suárez did not play because of immigration-related commitments. Brandon Williamson earned the win after allowing seven hits and three runs over five and one-third innings, while Casey Mize took the loss after giving up five hits and four runs in four innings.