UMES’ record-setting catcher brings big-time thump
In the 2026 season, Jonathan Gonzalez Perez emerged as Maryland Eastern Shore’s offensive engine, hitting .319 with a team-high 14 home runs, 58 RBI, a 1.004 OPS, and a modern-era UMES single-season home run record. He also earned First Team All-NEC honors and selection to the HBCU Swingman Classic, a strong sign of both production and respect from evaluators. At 6-foot-3, 240 pounds, the right-handed catcher profiles as a middle-of-the-order bat who can change a game with one swing; the key fit question is whether a team wants impact offense first, with catching value as the bonus.
