Humberto Cruz, a 19-year-old pitcher ranked by MLB Pipeline as San Diego’s No. 5 prospect, has pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge related to taking money to transport undocumented immigrants within the United States, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Cruz, a Mexican national, is reportedly now back in Mexico after acknowledging in his plea agreement that it was a “virtual certainty” he would be deported from the U.S.
Per the Union-Tribune, it is the Padres’ understanding that Cruz has lost his work visa for 10 years, with the ability to reapply after five years of good behavior. Cruz released a statement through the Padres apologizing for his “recent lapse in judgement,” the entirety of which can be read below.
Cruz was reportedly arrested on Oct. 28 near the town of Lukeville, Arizona, after U.S. Border Patrol noticed his BMW SUV heading southbound with only a driver, then northbound with two new passengers a short time later. The agents were reportedly suspicious a vehicle could make it to the Lukeville Port of Entry and back so quickly and stopped the car.
Both passengers reportedly turned out to be undocumented immigrants. Cruz, meanwhile, apparently didn’t hide much from the agents:
Cruz waived his Miranda rights and agreed to speak with the agents, telling them that he responded to a social media advertisement offering “easy money” for driving people, according to the complaint. According to the complaint, he told the agents he knew “they were illegal” and expected to be paid $1,000 for every person he picked up and transported.
“When asked why he decided to transport illegal aliens, he stated he needed the extra money as he does not work in the late afternoons,” the complaint stated.
Cruz signed with the Padres in 2024 for a $750,000 bonus, per Pipeline.
He initially faced a a felony count of transporting undocumented immigrants for financial gain and a misdemeanor count of being an accessory after the fact to improper entry into the U.S., per the Union-Tribune. He reportedly pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor in November to get the felony dismissed and was sentenced to 30 days in prison with credit for time served.
Cruz’s legal troubles came while his career was already on hold. He made 14 starts between rookie ball and Single-A in 2025, posting a 7.58 ERA, before undergoing internal brace surgery on his right UCL.
The Padres placed him on the restricted list in March, which will essentially treat him as an inactive player until he is able to return to the U.S.
His full statement, via the Union-Tribune:
“To my teammates, the organization, our fans, and my family, I want to express my sincere regret for a recent lapse in judgment that has caused disappointment to many people I deeply respect. I understand that my actions have fallen short of the standards expected of me as a professional and as a representative of this organization. I take responsibility for my conduct and recognize the impact it has had on my teammates, the club, and those who support us.
“To my teammates and coaches, I apologize for becoming a distraction and for not upholding the level of professionalism you deserve. To the fans, I am sorry for letting you down and for failing to meet the trust placed in me. Your support means a great deal, and I regret not honoring it in the way I should have. To my family, I am grateful for your continued support and understanding during this difficult time.
“I regret the stress and disappointment this situation has caused. I am committed to reflecting on this moment, learning from it, and taking the appropriate steps to move forward in a positive and responsible manner. I will cooperate fully with the organization and any steps required of me, as I remain focused on personal growth and accountability. Thank you to everyone who has reached out with support and honesty. I understand that trust must be earned, and I am prepared to do that through my actions going forward.”