ICE detains former Venezuelan baseball player Oswaldo Pirela in El Paso

Former Venezuelan baseball player Oswaldo Pirela has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at El Paso International Airport in Texas. Pirela is currently being held in ICE processing in El Paso, though the specific reasons for his immigration proceedings and the length of his detention remain undisclosed by authorities.

Pirela, who was born in Barquisimeto in 1991, played as a catcher during his career. Between 2009 and 2011, he was part of the Texas Rangers organization, participating in 79 minor league games and achieving an offensive average of .212, according to Baseball-Reference. After his playing career, he transitioned into coaching roles.

He currently maintains a professional connection with the San Diego Padres. Minor League Baseball records indicate he joined the Padres in 2024 as a bench coach for their affiliate, the Lake Elsinore Storm. The organization noted it was his first season within their structure. In 2026, he is listed as a coordinator of catchers within the Padres' player development system.