Jennifer Mercedes guides important MLB panel

Jennifer Mercedes, one of the most connected Latina baseball journalists in America, guided a fascinating discussion this week highlighting Latinas in baseball. The panel discussion was held at Major League Baseball’s headquarters in New York.

Mercedes, a Dominican American from New Jersey, is known throughout the sports world as La Chica Deportes. She was joined on the panel by Julie Lopez, Carla Chalas, Lauren Mendez and Natalia Reynoso.

“It was an honor to lead this discussion and shine a light on the incredible women making strides in baseball,” said Mercedes, who founded La Chica Deportes creative agency. “Representation matters, and events like these help elevate voices that are shaping the game both on and off the field.”

The “Impacto Latina: Women in Baseball” panel discussion proved to be a popular event. Lopez, Chalas, Mendez and Reynoso discussed their challenges, triumphs and aspirations.

Important insight

They also looked ahead for ways to help Latinos and Latinas advance through the baseball industry. Mercedes guided the conversation for the accomplished panelists. Attendees were given insight into several avenues to contribute to MLB and the game of baseball.

Chalas is in her eighth year at MLB. She’s a senior manager for MLB’s Player Programs department. In her role, she helps all 30 MLB teams’ player development programs.

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Chalas’ department helps players from the Dominican Summer League to Minor League Baseball and all the way to MLB. Actually, the work in her department starts before some international players even sign as amateur free agents.

Reynoso, a native of Los Angeles, began her career working for the MLB Youth Academy in Compton, Calif. She serves as a coordinator in Baseball & Softball Development for MLB. Her fingerprints are all over, whether on female-focused youth initiatives, the Futures Game or Arizona Fall League.

‘Unique perspective’

Lopez, who is in her ninth year at MLB, is a senior coordinator for the communications department. She plays a pivotal role with the media. Lopez helps manage the league’s credentialing for domestic and international events.

Mendez is a senior product manager in MLB’s enterprise products group. Her focus is mainly on the amateur side in support of the first-year player draft and international-signing period. With Jennifer Mercedes moderating, they gave important insight into the contributions of Latinas in MLB.

“Each panelist brought a unique perspective and expertise to the conversation,” Mercedes said. “Julie, for one, emphasized the importance of recognizing our own worth and not downplaying the value we bring to the table.

“In an industry where Latinas often have to work twice as hard to be seen, her words served as a crucial reminder that we deserve to celebrate our achievements and take pride in our impact.”