Cionel Pérez is a professional baseball player who was born on April 21, 1996, in Havana, Cuba. He is a talented pitcher who was signed by the Baltimore Orioles in 2021. Prior to joining the Orioles, he played for the Cincinnati Reds. Pérez began his career playing for the Cocodrilos de Matanzas during the 2016 Cuban National Series. His earned run average through the 2022 season stands at an impressive 3.57.
Pérez's journey in baseball began when he signed with the Houston Astros as an international free agent in September 2016. He started his professional career playing for the Quad Cities River Bandits. His talent and dedication quickly caught the attention of scouts, paving the way for his future success in the Major Leagues.
Pérez made his highly anticipated Major League debut pitching against the Oakland Athletics on July 11, 2018, as a member of the Astros. At just 22 years and 81 days old, he became the youngest Cuban-born pitcher to make his debut since former CY Young award winner, Jose Fernandez. This milestone marked the beginning of what would be a promising career for the young pitcher.
Off the field, Pérez shares his life with his wife, Devora, and their two children. Their love and support serve as a constant source of motivation for Pérez as he continues to chase his dreams in the world of baseball. Despite the demands of his career, Pérez prioritizes his family and cherishes the moments spent with his loved ones.
During the 2018 MLB regular season, Pérez had the opportunity to play alongside renowned players like Alex Bregman and José Altuve as a member of the Astros. His contributions to the team helped solidify his reputation as a standout pitcher in the league. Pérez's skill on the mound and his strategic gameplay earned him respect among his peers and fans alike.
Throughout his career, Pérez has faced challenges and setbacks, but his determination and passion for the game have guided him through difficult times. His resilience and work ethic have been instrumental in shaping him into the accomplished player he is today. As Pérez continues to make strides in his career, fans can expect to see more outstanding performances from this talented pitcher.