The Padres prospect has reportedly lost his work visa after pleading guilty to transporting undocumented immigrants.
Humberto Cruz, a 19-year-old pitcher ranked by MLB Pipeline as San Diego’s No. 1 prospect. 5, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge related to taking money to transport undocumented immigrants into the United States, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Cruz, who is originally from Mexico, is reported to have returned to Mexico after admitting in his plea agreement that it was a “certain fact” that he would be deported from the US.
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According to the Union-Tribune, the Padres’ understanding is 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 “lapse in judgment,” which can be read in full below.
Cruz was reportedly arrested on October 28 near the town of Lukeville, Arizona, after the US Border Patrol spotted his BMW SUV heading south with only the driver, then heading north with two new passengers a short time later. The police are reported to have suspected that the vehicle could arrive at the Lukeville Port of Entry and immediately returned and stopped the vehicle.
Both passengers are said to be undocumented immigrants. Cruz, on the other hand, apparently didn’t hide much from the agents:
Cruz waived his Miranda rights and agreed to speak with agents, telling them he responded to a social media ad offering “easy money” for driving people, according to the complaint. According to the complaint, he told the agents that he knew he was “illegal” and expected to be paid $1,000 for everyone who picked him up and transported him.
“When he was asked why he decided to transport illegal immigrants, he said he needed more money as he does not work in the afternoons,” the complaint said.
Cruz signed with the Padres through 2024 for a $750,000 bonus, per Pipeline.
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He initially faced a felony count of transporting undocumented immigrants for financial gain and a felony count of being a resource after illegally entering the US, according to the Union-Tribune. He reportedly pleaded guilty in November to a felony dismissal and was sentenced to 30 days in jail and credit for the time served.
Cruz’s legal problems came while his career was already on hold. He made 14 starts between rookie and Single-A ball 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 treat him as a softball player until he can return to the US.
His full statement, via the Union-Tribune:
“To my colleagues, the organization, our fans, and my family, I want to express my sincere regret for the recent misjudgment that has caused disappointment to many people I deeply respect. I understand that my actions have fallen below the standards expected of me as a professional and as a representative of this organization. I take responsibility for my behavior and I see the impact it has had on my teammates, the club, and those who support the team.
“To my teammates and coaches, I apologize for being a distraction and not following the level of professionalism you deserve. To the fans, I apologize for letting you down and failing to meet the trust you have placed in me. Your support means a lot, and I regret not respecting you the way I should have done. My family, thank you 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 time, learn from it, and take the necessary steps to move forward in a positive and honest way. I will fully cooperate with the organization and any steps required of me, as I am always focused on personal growth and accountability. Thank you to everyone who has reached out with support and honesty. I understand that trust requires me to be prepared to do that, and I am willing to do that.”
