Kidnapped Washington Nationals Player Returns To Washington, D.C.
WASHINGTON (WJZ)—Eight days after being kidnapped in his home country of Venezuela, Washington Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos returned to Washington, D.C. after a dramatic rescue.
Monique Griego has more on his traumatic ordeal.
Just days after being rescued from kidnappers in Venezuela, Washington Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos was back in D.C. to thank his fans.
"I just want to thank my fans for your prayers and support," Ramos said.
Ramos' harrowing experience began Nov. 9. He was in his hometown of Valencia, Venezuela to play winter ball when four men kidnapped him at gunpoint.
As investigators searched for clues, the Nationals team, including General Manager Mike Rizzo, waited and worried.
"A lot of people were just sitting on their hands waiting for some information. It was very, very difficult," Rizzo said.
Fans in Washington held vigils, along with his friends back home who pleaded for his safe return.
Two days later, their prayers were answered. After a dramatic gunfight, Ramos was rescued.
Commandos also arrested six of his 10 alleged kidnappers. It didn't take long for word to get back to Rizzo.
"I get emotional when I talk about it now. It's one of our own. He is a family member," Rizzo said.
Despite his ordeal, Ramos' focus seems to already be back on baseball.
"I'm happy to be here, happy to be with my family, and see you in spring training," Ramos said.
Despite everything that happened to him, Ramos still plans on returning to Venezuela to play for their league.
It's believed Ramos' kidnappers planned to hold him for ransom money.
