“This is a big, big deal,” MLB investigations expose MAJOR age fraud of Dominican prospect allied with Padres

A recent investigation into the Padres’ prominent prospect showed age fraud as he falsified paperwork as per reports.

“This is a big, big deal,” MLB investigations expose MAJOR age fraud of Dominican prospect allied with Padres

Petco Park Stadium - San Diego Padres [Image Credit: MLB]

According to a recent investigation by Major League Baseball, a Dominican prospect was found guilty of providing falsified paperwork. The alleged individual, Cesar Altagracia, was involved in an age fraud deal with the San Diego Padres.

The Padres were unaware of the whole situation, and once the incident came to light, the team nullified their verbal agreement. In the investigation, it was found that Altagracia showcased his age as 19, five years older, than his original age of 14.

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Age fraud is often heard of in the MLB. According to the rules, the league suspends such players for one year before they are again allowed for reinstatement. Shortstop Cesar Altagracia and the San Diego Padres verbally agreed to reach a deal of $4 million effective from January 2027.

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However, with the recent investigations, it has now become impossible to do so. Furthermore, he’ll need to wait for another year till he can look up to sign with MLB teams.

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Social media reacts to Dominican prospect’s age fraud case

The Dominican prospect Cesar Altagracia was seen as one of the most promising players in his international signing class. He even represented the 2022 U-12 Baseball World Cup and U-15 Pan American Championships.

San Diego Padres
San Diego Padres [Image Credit: Yardbarker]

This case puts a negative light on his bright career. MLB insider Jeff Passan rightfully noted on X, “This is a big, big deal…age fraud among international amateurs remains an issue…this case is particularly egregious.”

The San Diego Padres and Major League Baseball have declined to comment on this issue so far. The recent rise in age fraud incidents is receiving heavy scrutiny both from the MLB and from its community.

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Unfortunately, the league has yet to find a permanent solution to the problem. In international cases, many teams and prospective players reach verbal agreement before finalizing on contract once they turn 16.