Waldorf, MD – It was announced on social media Wednesday evening that the 2019 Blue Crabs catcher, Charlie Valerio has signed a contract to play in the San Diego Padres organization. Valerio, an Atlantic League All-Star, will report to Spring Training with the Padres in 2020.
The last month has been a whirlwind for the switch-hitting backstop. Valerio has been representing his native Dominican Republic in the Premier12, a qualifier for the 2020 Olympics. His bat has been red hot in the tournament, hitting two home runs and accumulating a .444 batting average through the early stages of play.
Valerio’s dedication and passion was shown everyday as a member of the Blue Crabs, and extends back to his childhood when he was put in timeout for playing baseball in the streets of the Dominican Republic against his parents direction. The catcher who will be returning to affiliated baseball for the first time since 2014 said in response to the signing, “Every dream can come true with dedication, patience, and discipline. God gives you things in his time, not when you want, so never give up.”
Valerio finished the 2019 season with Southern Maryland among team leaders in batting average, and among league leaders in caught stealing percentage. He was well-known as a fan favorite and a great teammate, and the Blue Crabs wish Charlie the best of luck with the Padres.
About the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs – The Blue Crabs play 126 regular season games in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball Clubs. The Blue Crabs, set to kick off their 13th season of baseball, call Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf, Maryland home. For more information on the Blue Crabs, please call 301-638-9788 or visit http://www.somdbluecrabs.com for more information.
About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB) – With eight teams in the Mid-Atlantic and Texas, the ALPB is a leader in baseball innovation and a player gateway to Major League Baseball. Through its exclusive partnership with MLB, the Atlantic League tests Major League Baseball rules and equipment initiatives. The Atlantic League has sent over 950 players to MLB organizations while drawing more than 42 million fans to its affordable, family-friendly ballparks throughout its 22-year history. For more information, please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com.