Caracas, Venezuela

The scary kidnapping case of Washington Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos is just one in a long list of stories regarding the dangers professional players face in Venezuela, particularly Venezuelans.

The abduction of Ramos on Wednesday was the first known kidnapping of a major leaguer in the country but not the first violent crime against a baseball player.

Venezuelan authorities said Friday they believe they can solve the kidnapping. According to the authorities, four men kidnapped Ramos outside his parents' house in the northern city of Valencia. The vehicle used in the abduction has been found and authorities have stated that Ramos is alive.

Two years ago the son of Colorado Rockies catcher Yorvit Torrealba and two of his uncles were abducted in Venezuela. The kidnappers demanded a $1 million ransom but the victims were released before any ransom was paid.

A year earlier Colorado Rockies outfielder Carlos Gonzalez was robbed at gunpoint of his car, wallet and watch.

At Venezualan Winter League games Thursday night players and fans observed a minute of silence in support of Ramos.