MLB suspends Dominican prospect who allegedly falsified name, age, death
MLB has suspended a Dominican prospect who had reportedly signed a pre-deal with the Guardians. Here are the wild details.
Major League Baseball has suspended a sought-after Dominican prospect named David Severino for allegedly falsifying his name, age, and death to appear younger, according to ESPN. The investigation was reportedly initiated by MLB after the Guardians agreed to a $2.8 million contract with Severino, which would be finalized in 2029 when he'd turn 17.
It has been revealed that his real name is Daury David Severino Damaso, and he's actually 16 years old. Allegedly, with the help of his parents, a trainer, and a fake birth registration, Severino created a false identity to appear as his younger brother, David Severino. A fraudulent death certificate was filed for Daury, claiming he died of a respiratory illness in 2012, and a fake tombstone was placed at a gravesite in the Dominican Republic.
Severino has been suspended, which will delay his entry into the international amateur market and signing with a team. The Guardians have not commented on the matter, and age and identity fraud are not unusual in international signings.
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