Jonathan Figueroa

Jonathan Figueroa, former rising star for the Los Angeles Dodgers, died November 8 due to complications from lupus.

Figueroa was rated the Dodgers’ No. 2 prospect in the 2003 Prospect Handbook, behind the club’s current first baseman James Loney and just ahead of Tigers right-hander Edwin Jackson. A pitcher, Figueroa was signed out of Venezuela and posted a combined 7-3, 1.42 record in 2002 at Rookie-level Great Falls and low Class A South Georgia.

Figueroa joined the Lincoln, Nebraska Saltdogs in August 2008 and pitched in three games over the final 11 days of the season. He started the 2009 season in the starting rotation and made 16 appearances, going 3-5 with a 3.78 ERA before he was placed on the disabled list on July 12.

Apparently, while in Florida, Figueroa started feeling the effects of a tick bite he likely received while pitching in the Midwest. While getting treatment for the bite, and possibly Lyme disease, his lupus was discovered. Not knowing the severity of his illness, the Saltdogs exercised the 2010 option on Figueroa’s contract in October.

“This is a tremendous loss on any number of levels,” said Saltdogs general manager Tim Utrup. “Jonathan was well liked by everybody in the organization. Our hearts go out to his family.”

Figueroa began his career in 2002 with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization after being signed as an undrafted free agent. He stayed in the Dodgers’ farm system through the 2007 season and then signed with Long Beach of the Golden League in 2008. Lincoln acquired him from Long Beach in August of that year. Jonathan appeared in 136 games over his eight-year career, making 93 starts. He posted a 25-35 career record in the minor leagues, with two saves and a 4.83 career ERA.

Figueroa is survived by his wife, Katitiana, a 5-year-old son, Victor, and a 1-year-old daughter, Victoria.