The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs have brought together childhood friends and fellow Puerto Ricans Ezequiel Pagan and Anthony Borrero as they pursue professional baseball careers on the same team. Both players hail from Guayanilla, Puerto Rico, a town of about 17,000 on the southern coast of the island. Their journey from youth baseball through different paths has culminated in a reunion at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf, Maryland.
Early Bonds in Guayanilla
Pagan and Borrero have been playing baseball alongside each other since they were five years old. Growing up together in Guayanilla, they developed both their skills and a strong friendship, fueling their shared dream of playing professionally on the same team. This childhood connection remains a motivating force as they compete together in the Atlantic League.
Ezequiel Pagan’s Professional Path
Pagan was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 13th round of the MLB Draft out of Pro Baseball High School and Academy in Puerto Rico. Although he had plans to attend Broward College in Florida, he chose to sign professionally with the Cubs. Over seven seasons, Pagan progressed through the Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers organizations, reaching Double-A level.
Pagan also excelled in winter ball, earning the Puerto Rican Winter League Rookie of the Year award in 2025 and representing Puerto Rico in international competitions. During the current Atlantic League season, Pagan has been a key offensive contributor for the Blue Crabs. He has recorded a 32-game on-base streak—the longest by any Blue Crab this year—and holds a .360 batting average over that run, the fifth-best in the league.
Anthony Borrero’s Rise to Professional Baseball
Unlike Pagan, Borrero developed his talents primarily in Puerto Rico’s Superior Double-A Baseball League with San Sebastián, a highly competitive amateur circuit comprising 45 teams. Borrero had a breakout 2026 season, capturing Pitcher of the Year honors. He posted a perfect 6-0 win-loss record with a 0.74 earned run average and struck out 46 batters over 36.1 innings, helping his team to a 19-1 regular-season record and a run to the regional final.
Following an impressive performance at the IndyBall Jobs Puerto Rico Showcase, Borrero signed his first professional contract with the Blue Crabs on June 25, 2027. Adjusting to the Atlantic League’s level of competition presents new challenges, but Borrero credits his Latino teammates for helping him acclimate to professional baseball in the United States.
Friendship and Support on the Field
Pagan played a pivotal role in bringing Borrero to Southern Maryland by reaching out and encouraging him to take the professional step. Borrero quickly embraced the opportunity, and both players benefit from the confidence their reunion has fostered.
Having a longtime friend in the clubhouse provides a sense of comfort and confidence. Borrero acknowledges the support of both Pagan and the Blue Crabs’ diverse roster as he continues to adapt to the professional game.
Southern Maryland Blue Crabs: Tradition and Ambition
The Blue Crabs have been Atlantic League members since 2008, marking 2026 as their 18th season at Regency Furniture Stadium. Known to fans as “Crustacean Nation,” the franchise boasts a tradition of fostering talent, including former Major Leaguers Chien-Ming Wang, Pat Mahomes Sr., and Daryl Thompson, as well as recent MLB players like Isaac Mattson.
Currently holding the first half championship, the Blue Crabs aim to sustain their success. The presence of players like Pagan and Borrero, along with their chemistry and dedication, bolsters Southern Maryland’s pursuit of the Atlantic League title.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
The reunion of Ezequiel Pagan and Anthony Borrero underscores the powerful connection baseball creates among friends and communities. Their shared history from Guayanilla to Southern Maryland represents both personal achievement and the Blue Crabs’ commitment to nurturing diverse talent.
Pagan’s experience paired with Borrero’s fresh promise provides a dynamic that strengthens the team on and off the field. Their story illustrates the human elements of trust, friendship, and shared goals that enrich the Atlantic League and the broader Maryland sports scene.
As the season progresses, the chemistry and perseverance of these two players will be pivotal for the Blue Crabs’ championship aspirations, highlighting the growing influence of Puerto Rican baseball talent in professional leagues.
For Blue Crabs fans and followers of Puerto Rican baseball heritage, the journey of Pagan and Borrero offers an inspiring testament to camaraderie and opportunity within the sport.
