Charros de Jalisco Bolsters Roster with Manny Barreda and Álex Mejía

Charros de Jalisco, the reigning champion of the Zona Norte in the LMB Banorte, has made significant moves to strengthen its starting rotation and infield, acquiring star pitcher Manny Barreda and experienced infielder Álex Mejía from Saraperos de Saltillo. In exchange, the team sent pitcher Luis Armando Payán and catcher Donny Sands to Saltillo, finalizing the trade.

Experience and Proven Track Record

Manny Barreda, a 37-year-old right-handed pitcher, brings decades of experience to Jalisco. Born in Arizona, Barreda has spent 20 seasons in professional baseball, starting his career with the New York Yankees in 2007. His journey includes stints with the Milwaukee Brewers, Atlanta Braves, and Baltimore Orioles, where he made his MLB debut in 2021. In Mexican baseball, Barreda has been a consistent force, playing for Tijuana and Saltillo in the LMB Banorte, as well as Culiacán and Los Mochis in the Liga Mexicana del Pacífico. He has also represented Mexico in the World Baseball Classic in 2023 and 2026.

Barreda’s career stats include 639 games pitched, 248 starts, a 117-91 record, 1,880.2 innings pitched, a 3.98 ERA, 844 strikeouts, and a 1.38 WHIP. He has thrown two no-hitters, one with Cañeros and another with Toros.

Versatile Infielder Joins the Roster

Álex Mejía, a 35-year-old infielder from Sylmar, California, adds versatility to Jalisco’s lineup. Mejía, selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 2012 draft, has played 690 games across MLB and MiLB, hitting .261 with 610 hits and 242 RBIs. In Mexican baseball, he has played for Monclova and Saltillo in the summer and Monterrey and Mexicali in the winter, establishing himself as a disciplined and reliable player.

Trade Details and Team Impact

The trade sees Charros de Jalisco part ways with Luis Armando Payán and Donny Sands, who will join Saraperos de Saltillo. The club expressed gratitude for their contributions, wishing them success in their new endeavors.

This acquisition positions Charros de Jalisco to compete strongly in the upcoming season, leveraging Barreda’s veteran leadership and Mejía’s adaptability across multiple infield positions.