The Washington nationals They have marked a before and after in the history of the Major Leagues by becoming the first team to have a Venezuelan pair leading its main coaching staff: Miguel Cairo as an interim manager and White Henry Like new banking coach.
The official announcement was made on Tuesday, just 24 hours after the club appointed Cairo as an interim strategist after the departure of the previous pilot. Blanco was already part of the technical staff as a receiver coach, but now it amounts to a key position in decision making within the Dugout.
A historical fact for Venezuela in the MLB
This will be the first time in the history of the MLB that two Venezuelans simultaneously share such important roles in the technical direction of a team. A milestone that not only enhances the trajectory of both, but also makes visible the talent and Creole leadership in high level baseball.
Who is Henry Blanco?
Henry Blanco, born in Caracas on August 29, 1971, had a long and respected career as a receiver in the Major Leagues during 16 seasons (1997–2013), standing out as one of the best defensive catches of his generation.
Played for 11 teams in MLB:
- Los Angeles Dodgers
- Colorado rockies
- Chicago puppies
- Arizona diamondbacks
- Atlanta braves
- Milwaukee brewers
- Minnesota twins
- New York Mets
- San Diego’s parents
- Seattle sailors
- Toronto tiles
It was widely recognized for their handling of the pitchers and their ability to guide young talents from the receiver.
Career as a major leagues
After his retirement as a player, Blanco began a solid career as a coach:
He was Coach of Bullpen and receivers in the Cubs, Bravos and National.
He worked with Joe Maddon during the historic Cubs World Series in 2016, where Chicago broke his 108 -year -old drought without championship.
In recent years, he has established himself as a technical mentor with high tactical knowledge and great respect in the clubhouse.
Henry Blanco in the LVBP
In Venezuela, Blanco has also had a leading role as a manager and coach in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League (LVBP):
He was champion as a manager of the Lara cardinals in the 2018-2019 season.
He also directed the Braves of Margarita, where he left a good impression on his discipline and formation of players.
It has been a constant figure in the technical staffs of Creole teams, winning the reputation of being one of the most trained Venezuelan coaches.
He is the current champion of the LVBP with the Cardinals of Lara (2024/25), after defeating Margarita Braves.
Venezuelan projection and pride
The presence of Henry Blanco and Miguel Cairo under the command of nationals represents much more than a professional opportunity: it is a reason for national pride for Venezuela and an example of the growth of Creole talent in all areas of baseball.
Both will have the responsibility of guiding a team in reconstruction and leaving their mark with a fresh vision, experience and leadership. Even if it is interim, until the organization seeks the replacement of Dave Martínez.
