By the WBWTN News Team | April 23, 2025
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(WBWTN) - Chito Martínez, the first and only Belizean-born athlete to play in Major League Baseball, has passed away at the age of 59. His death was confirmed on April 22, 2025, after he reportedly suffered a heart attack following recent health struggles.
Born in Belize City on December 19, 1965, Reyenaldo Ignacio “Chito” Martínez moved to the United States with his family at just two years old. They settled in New Orleans, where he later found his calling on the baseball field, eventually becoming a standout at Brother Martin High School.
Martínez professional baseball started in 1984 when he was selected by the Kansas City Royals. He would go on to spend several seasons honing his skills in the minor leagues before making it to the majors. Joining the Baltimore Orioles gave him a renewed opportunity to shine.
In July 1991, Martínez made history. He was called up to the Orioles and became the first player born in Belize to take the field in the MLB. He quickly made an impression—slugging 13 home runs in his rookie season and becoming the first Orioles player to record a hit in his first six major league games.
Though his time in the majors was brief, lasting through the 1993 season, his impact was lasting. Over the course of 158 games, he maintained a .259 average at the plate and hit 18 home runs. But beyond the stats, Martínez carried the pride of an entire country and became a symbol of what was possible for Belizean athletes.
His legacy lives on through his family. His son Drew Martínez was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in 2011 and now coaches in the minor leagues with the San Francisco Giants’ organization. Another son, Dalton, also pursued baseball and is currently a hitting coach at Georgia State.
Chito Martínez will be remembered not only for his achievements on the field but for the doors he opened for athletes from small nations like Belize.
