Southern Maryland Blue Crabs: Brothers in Baseball – Pagan and Borrero Reunited
The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs have witnessed a rare and heartwarming reunion this season as childhood friends and fellow Puerto Rican natives, outfielder Ezequiel Pagan and pitcher Anthony Borrero, have come together to play professional baseball on the same team. Both hailing from Guayanilla, Puerto Rico, these longtime friends have shared their baseball journey since they were five years old, and now they pursue their professional dreams side by side at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf, Maryland.
A Reunion Rooted in Guayanilla, Puerto Rico
Guayanilla, a coastal town on the southern shore of Puerto Rico with a population around 17,000, has produced two Atlantic League-affiliated Blue Crabs players reuniting on the field in Southern Maryland. Growing up together, Pagan and Borrero developed their baseball skills throughout various youth leagues. This foundation created a bond that transcends baseball and motivates each as they compete at a professional level.
Ezequiel Pagan reflected on their shared past, saying, “We have always played together since we were five years old. It was always a dream to play together on a professional team.” That dream became reality when Borrero officially signed with the Blue Crabs in June 2027, joining Pagan, who has been an established player on the team.
The Journey of Ezequiel Pagan to Southern Maryland
Pagan’s path to the Blue Crabs has been one of steady progression in professional baseball. Drafted in the 13th round of the Major League Baseball Draft by the Chicago Cubs out of Pro Baseball High School and Academy in Puerto Rico, Pagan initially had plans to attend Broward College in Florida. However, he opted to sign professionally with the Cubs and build his career through the affiliated minor leagues.
Over seven seasons, Pagan played in the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers organizations, advancing as far as Double-A baseball. Along the way, he distinguished himself in winter ball, earning the Puerto Rican Winter League Rookie of the Year award in 2025, and proudly representing Puerto Rico in major international competitions.
During the current Atlantic League season, Pagan has been an offensive catalyst for the Blue Crabs. His remarkable 32-game on-base streak stands as the longest by any Blue Crab player this year, hitting .360 during that run — a mark that ranks fifth in the Atlantic League. His ability to consistently reach base has been critical in setting the table for Southern Maryland’s offense.
Anthony Borrero’s Breakout Achievement and Professional Debut
In contrast, Borrero’s journey remained anchored in Puerto Rico until recently. He developed as a standout pitcher in the Superior Double-A Baseball League with San Sebastián, a competitive 45-team amateur circuit. Borrero’s 2026 season marked a breakout year as he was named the league’s Pitcher of the Year, boasting a flawless 6-0 record combined with a microscopic 0.74 earned run average. He struck out 46 batters over 36.1 innings pitched, guiding his team to a dominant 19-1 regular-season record and a run to the regional final.
Following this performance and an impressive showing at the IndyBall Jobs Puerto Rico Showcase, Borrero signed his first professional contract with the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs on June 25, 2027. The 26-year-old rookie pitcher encountered a fresh set of challenges adapting to the Atlantic League’s high level of competition, but he acknowledges the invaluable support from his teammates, particularly the Latino players, as he continues to adjust.
Borrero expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am happy to be here. Every day I learn different things because many things are so different from playing in Puerto Rico. I am grateful for all of my Latino teammates. They have helped me a lot. I am just thankful for the opportunity to be here.”
A Friendship that Helped Forge a Professional Path
While Borrero’s impressive amateur résumé played a major role in his signing, Pagan’s mentorship and encouragement helped accelerate the transition to professional baseball in the United States. Pagan reached out to Borrero about joining the Blue Crabs, and the opportunity immediately resonated with his longtime friend.
Pagan noted, “I contacted him about playing here. He was more than happy and quickly decided to take that step forward in his career.” Their reunion has provided both players increased confidence and comfort, which translates into positive on-field performances.
Southern Maryland Blue Crabs: A Tradition of Success and Growth
The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs have been integral members of the Atlantic League since their inaugural 2008 season, marking 2026 as their 18th year competing at Regency Furniture Stadium. Known affectionately by fans as “Crustacean Nation,” the Blue Crabs have a proud tradition of success and serve as a developmental platform for players striving to reach Major League Baseball.
Notable alumni include MLB veterans such as Chien-Ming Wang, Pat Mahomes Sr., and Clawsome Times Await team legend Daryl Thompson. The team has also fostered recent Major League talent, including Pittsburgh Pirates reliever Isaac Mattson. The Blue Crabs’ reputation as a launching ground for professional careers continues to attract talent like Pagan and Borrero.
Currently, the Blue Crabs are focused on building upon their success after securing the first half championship this season. With competitive balance and a diverse roster, including a significant Latino presence that has helped Borrero and other players settle in, Southern Maryland aims to compete for the Atlantic League title.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
The story of Ezequiel Pagan and Anthony Borrero is one emblematic of baseball’s enduring power to forge lifelong friendships and opportunities. Their professional reunion with the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs represents both personal triumph and a testament to the Blue Crabs organization’s commitment to player development and cultural community.
Pagan’s steady presence and veteran savvy, combined with Borrero’s emerging talent and determination, provide the Blue Crabs with a potent combination on the field. Beyond statistics and competition, their reunion speaks to the deeper human element of sports — shared history, trust, and the drive to succeed together. It is a compelling narrative that enriches the Atlantic League and Maryland sports landscape.
As the Blue Crabs continue their season, the duo’s chemistry and dedication will be key factors in Southern Maryland’s pursuit of a championship. Their journey from Guayanilla to Waldorf demonstrates the expanding footprint of Puerto Rican baseball talent and the special bonds that transcend borders in America’s pastime.
For fans of Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, Atlantic League baseball, and Puerto Rican baseball heritage, the story of Pagan and Borrero is not only inspiring but also a reminder of the community and connection at the heart of baseball.
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Source: Original report
