History of Oneil Cruz in Timeline

Oneil Cruz is a Dominican professional baseball player currently playing center field and shortstop for the Pittsburgh Pirates in MLB. He debuted in 2021 and notably led the National League in stolen bases in 2025. He is known for his athleticism and versatility on the field.

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Full Timeline

October 4, 1998: Oneil Cruz's Birth

On October 4, 1998, Oneil Cruz was born. He is a Dominican professional baseball center fielder and shortstop.

Others born on this day/year

2007: Joel Guzmán's Shortstop Appearance

In 2007, Joel Guzmán, who is 6-foot-7-inch tall, made an appearance at shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays, which is notable because Cruz is unusually tall for a shortstop.

July 2015: Signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers

In July 2015, Oneil Cruz signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers as an international free agent for a $950,000 signing bonus.

July 31, 2017: Trade to the Pirates

On July 31, 2017, Oneil Cruz was traded by the Dodgers to the Pirates along with Angel German in exchange for Tony Watson. He was then assigned to the West Virginia Power.

September 22, 2020: Vehicle Crash in Dominican Republic

On September 22, 2020, Oneil Cruz was involved in a deadly vehicle crash in the Dominican Republic in which three people were killed. Cruz survived without serious injury.

October 2, 2021: Promotion to MLB Active Roster

On October 2, 2021, Oneil Cruz was promoted to the active roster for the first time to make his MLB debut in the last games of the season.

August 24, 2022: Hardest-Hit Ball Recorded

On August 24, 2022, Oneil Cruz hit the then hardest-hit ball since the advent of Statcast, with a speed of 122.4 miles per hour against Atlanta Braves pitcher Kyle Wright.

August 2024: Move to Center Field

In August 2024, manager Derek Shelton announced that Oneil Cruz would be moving to center field for the foreseeable future.

April 2025: First Career Grand Slam

In April 2025, Oneil Cruz hit his first career grand slam against the Washington Nationals in a 6-1 victory.

May 2025: Hardest-Hit Ball in Statcast Era

In May 2025, Oneil Cruz hit the hardest-hit ball in the Statcast Era, at 122.9 miles per hour, against Logan Henderson of the Milwaukee Brewers, reaching 432 feet for a home run.