Michel Baez was born on January 21, 1996, in Havana, Cuba. Growing up, he developed a love for baseball, a sport that is deeply ingrained in Cuban culture. Baez dreamed of one day playing professionally in the major leagues and worked tirelessly to make that dream a reality.
In 2016, Baez was signed by the San Diego Padres as an international free agent. This was a significant moment in his career, as he had the opportunity to showcase his talents on a big stage. Prior to signing with the Padres, Baez had already gained experience pitching in the Cuban National Series, honing his skills and preparing himself for the challenges of professional baseball.
Baez began his minor league career with the AZL Padres and quickly impressed the coaching staff with his talent and work ethic. He was soon promoted to the Fort Wayne TinCaps, where he continued to excel and make a name for himself in the Padres organization.
On July 23, 2019, Baez made his official major league debut against the New York Mets. It was a memorable moment for the young pitcher, as he pitched one scoreless inning and allowed just one hit. This performance showcased Baez's potential and set the stage for what would hopefully be a successful career in the major leagues.
Despite achieving success in his professional career, Baez has not forgotten his roots. He cherishes the time he spent with his family in Havana, Cuba, and remains grateful for the support and encouragement they have provided him throughout his journey. While Baez now resides in Arizona, his Cuban heritage continues to be an important part of his identity.
During his MLB debut, Baez had the opportunity to play alongside seasoned veterans like Manny Machado and Fernando Tatís Jr. These experiences allowed him to learn from some of the best in the game and further develop his skills as a pitcher. Baez's talent and work ethic have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches, positioning him for a successful career in Major League Baseball.