Dominican · Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic · Born 7 January 2000Dominican professional baseball shortstop known for his exceptional height, powerful arm strength, and record-breaking exit velocities in Major League Baseball.
Oneil Cruz is the Pittsburgh Pirates' extraordinary shortstop, at 6-foot-7 the tallest shortstop in major league history. His combination of elite bat speed, exceptional power for the position, and improving defence have produced some of baseball's most spectacular plays. Despite injury challenges, his natural gifts and unique physical profile make him one of the game's most fascinating players.
Famous For
Exceptional height for shortstop position and powerful arm strength
Playing Style
How They Played
Power-hitting shortstop with strong defensive arm and impressive range
Legacy
Lasting Impact
Tallest shortstop in MLB history at 6'7"
Honours & Achievements
Career Honours
- 2025 NL Stolen Base Leader (38 SB)
- 2026 World Baseball Classic Bronze Medal – Dominican Republic
Team Career
| Team | Period | Fee | Games | Jersey |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Pirates | 2021–2024 | — | — | #15 |
| Los Angeles Dodgers (DSL/MiLB) | 2015–2017 | $950,000 signing bonus | — | — |
Career Journey
Timeline
2015
📌 Signed as international free agent by Pittsburgh Pirates
2015
📌 Signed with LA Dodgers as international free agent for $950,000
2017
📌 Traded by Dodgers to Pittsburgh Pirates for Tony Watson
2018
🎯 Promoted to Class A West Virginia Power
2019
🎯 Advanced to High-A Bradenton Marauders
2021
📌 MLB debut with Pittsburgh Pirates
2021
🎯 MLB debut with Pittsburgh Pirates (Oct 2)
2022
🎯 First full MLB season as starting shortstop
2022
⚡ Recorded hardest-hit ball by shortstop in Statcast era
2022
⚡ Hit 122.4 mph exit velocity – then-hardest Statcast ball ever recorded
2023
⚡ Recorded 122.4 mph throw from shortstop, hardest on record
2023
📌 Missed entire MLB season with fractured left fibula
2024
🎯 Moved to CF; 21 HR, 22 SB, .259 BA; highest max exit velocity in MLB (121.5 mph)
2025
⚡ Set new Statcast hardest-hit ball record: 122.9 mph vs. Milwaukee Brewers
2025
🥇 Led NL in stolen bases (38); participated in MLB Home Run Derby
2026
🌍 Won bronze medal with Dominican Republic at World Baseball Classic
Dominican Athletes