A dark day in MLB with the death of a former pitcher at only 37 years old

According to Venezuelan outlet Radio América, Medina suffered a heart attack Thursday night while driving near the Via Veneto Shopping Center in Naguanagua, Venezuela.

The medical emergency caused him to lose control of his vehicle, crashing into several parked cars. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported.

The Seattle Mariners, Medina's former team, expressed their sorrow after learning of his sudden death.

«We are deeply saddened by the passing of Yoervis Medina,» the team said in a statement. «Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.»

Born in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela, Yoervis Medina made his MLB debut with the Mariners in 2013, quickly earning recognition for his powerful fastball and sharp command on the mound.

He pitched three seasons with Seattle before joining the Chicago Cubs in 2015.

After just five appearances with the Cubs, Medina's career took a nomadic turn. He was claimed off waivers by the Pittsburgh Pirates, then traded to the Philadelphia Phillies, but never returned to the majors.

He was released in 2016 and later continued playing professional baseball overseas, including in Europe and his home country of Venezuela.

Medina's former teammates have shared heartfelt tributes online, remembering him as a kind-hearted competitor with an infectious smile and strong work ethic.

Fans, too, have been flooding social media with condolences, calling him «a talent gone too soon.»

His death serves as a reminder of the fragility of life, even for elite athletes who once performed under the brightest lights of Major League Baseball.

Medina is survived by his family in Venezuela, who are said to be receiving an outpouring of support from the baseball community around the world.