San Diego Padres Prospect Leaves U.S. After Shocking Human Smuggling Case

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San Diego Padres Prospect Leaves U.S. After Shocking Human Smuggling Case

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Orlando Silva | Last updated May 10, 2026 9:30 AM ET

A top San Diego Padres prospect might have ruined a promising career over an easily avoidable situation. The player self-deported to Mexico following an investigation by federal authorities.

Humberto Cruz, a 19-year-old right-hander, put himself in a complex position in November. The Padres secured his services in February 2024 with a whopping $750,000 signing bonus.

Cruz shouldn’t have money issues, but his alleged desire to make a couple of more dollars played against him last year.

San Diego Padres’ Prospect Accused Of Human Smuggling

The Athletic obtained court documents that revealed that Border Patrol apprehended Humberto Cruz in October. Agents spotted his BMW SUV with Mexican plates traveling north on State Route 85 near Lukeville, an hour before it was seen heading south toward the border.

After he got pulled over, authorities found two Mexican citizens who entered the United States illegally. While facing a 10-year maximum sentence for a felony charge of transportation of illegal aliens for profit (he told investigators he was offered $1,000 to transport people), he reached a deal to plead guilty to a lesser misdemeanor.

He decided to self-deport to Monterrey as a result of the situation. The Padres confirmed that Cruz remains on the minor league restricted list, meaning he won’t be able to use the team’s facilities. His salary is suspended, and his progression could take a big hit.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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