Yohel Pozo is a Venezuelan catcher from Maracaibo who has been making his way through the big leagues since debuting on August 13, 2021. Known more for his glove than his bat, Pozo has bounced through several organizations and continues to carve out a role as a dependable option behind the plate.
Quick Facts
- Full name: Yohel Pozo
- Position: Catcher
- Team: Baltimore Orioles
- Number: 79
- Bats / Throws: Right / Right
- Height / Weight: 5’11» / 201 lbs
- Born: June 14, 1997 (age 29) — Maracaibo, Venezuela 🇻🇪
- MLB Debut: August 13, 2021
Background
Born in Maracaibo on June 14, 1997, Pozo developed his catching skills through Venezuela’s minor league system before signing with a major league organization. His MLB debut came in August 2021, and since then he has appeared in both the American and National Leagues with multiple clubs. As a right-handed catcher, Pozo has built his value around pitch-framing, game-calling, and the kind of behind-the-scenes leadership that doesn’t always show up in a box score.
Professional Career
In 2026, Pozo split time between the Baltimore Orioles and the St. Louis Cardinals, posting a combined .238 batting average with 1 home run, 7 RBI, and an OPS of .566. His numbers varied by stop: with Baltimore he hit .222 but put up a stronger .756 OPS, while in St. Louis he batted .242 with a .515 OPS.
At 29, Pozo is still competing for a steady roster spot at one of baseball’s most demanding positions. His primary value remains on the defensive side, where experience and leadership behind the dish count for plenty.
2026 Stats
- Combined (2026): .238 AVG | 1 HR | 7 RBI | 1 R | .566 OPS | 0 SB
- Baltimore Orioles (2026): .222 AVG | 1 HR | 2 RBI | 1 R | .756 OPS | 0 SB
- St. Louis Cardinals (2026): .242 AVG | 0 HR | 5 RBI | 0 R | .515 OPS | 0 SB
Awards and Records
Pozo has not won individual awards such as an MVP, Gold Glove, or Silver Slugger. His contributions have come through defense and player development — the less glamorous but essential work that defines a backup catcher’s value in the modern game.
Good to Know
Pozo is part of a long and proud line of Venezuelan catchers who have reached the majors. The position demands far more than offensive production — pitch management, defensive instincts, and clubhouse presence are all part of the job, and Pozo has built his career on exactly those qualities.
