Michael Pérez, born on July 10, 1992 in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, began his journey to becoming a professional baseball player at a young age. With a passion for the sport evident from his childhood, Pérez dedicated himself to honing his skills and pursuing his dream of making it to the major leagues. He played for various local teams in Puerto Rico before catching the attention of scouts for the Arizona Diamondbacks.
In 2011, Pérez was drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks during the fifth round of the MLB Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional career as a catcher. He started playing for the Diamondbacks' rookie affiliate team, the AZL Diamondbacks, where he showcased his talent and potential as a skilled player behind the plate.
On July 26, 2018, Pérez made his major league debut playing against the Baltimore Orioles as a member of the Tampa Bay Rays. This significant milestone in his career was a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. Throughout his time in the major leagues, Pérez continued to impress with his defensive abilities and commitment to the game.
Off the field, Pérez finds joy and support in his family. He is married to Maria, and together they have three children. Despite the demands of a professional baseball career, Pérez values spending time with his loved ones and cherishes the moments they share together.
In October 2020, Pérez was acquired by the Pittsburgh Pirates via waivers, marking a new chapter in his baseball journey. Joining a new team presented Pérez with opportunities for growth and development as a player. His determination and passion for the game continue to drive him towards achieving success in his career.
Throughout his time in the major leagues, Pérez has achieved significant milestones, including recording his first career major league hit facing Alex Cobb. These moments serve as reminders of the hard work and dedication that Pérez has put into his career, and they motivate him to continue pushing himself to new heights.
As Pérez continues to navigate the ups and downs of a professional baseball career, he remains focused on improving his skills, contributing to his team's success, and inspiring young athletes to pursue their own dreams. With his talent, determination, and unwavering passion for the game, Michael Pérez is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of baseball.