Orioles minor leaguer Ramon Ramirez killed in motorcycle accident (with statement)

Orioles minor league infielder Ramon Ramirez was killed yesterday in the Dominican Republic when his motorcycle was struck by a vehicle. He was 23.

The club is still gathering information on the accident, which occurred as Ramirez was leaving a softball game. His friends were arranging a farewell party before his return to the United States.

Ramirez's girlfriend was riding on the back of the motorcycle and survived the crash. She sustained a broken leg, according to a team official.

"We're still piecing the details together," said director of player development Brian Graham. "It's a really, really sad situation. He was a really good kid. Everybody liked him and it's just a really sad situation.

"We're still trying to find out all the details."

Ramirez was born in La Romana in the Dominican Republic, where the accident occurred. He would have turned 24 next month.

The Orioles signed Ramirez as a non-drafted free agent in July 2014 and he batted .286/.375/.357 with five doubles, two triples and 14 RBIs in 32 games with the Dominican Summer League team.

Last season, Ramirez appeared in 15 games with the Gulf Coast League team, one with short-season Single-A Aberdeen and seven with Single-A Frederick. He played his final game with the Keys on Sept. 7.

Update: Orioles executive vice president Dan Duquette issued the following statement on Ramirez's death:

"Our entire organization is deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic death of Ramon Ramirez. As a member of the Orioles organization, Ramon worked tirelessly to make the most of his opportunity to play professional baseball. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, teammates and coaches as we mourn this unimaginable loss."