Rangers' Guzman involved in fatal car crash

Ronald Guzman, the Rangers' 17th-ranked prospect, was involved in a fatal car crash early Tuesday morning in his hometown of La Vega, Dominican Republic, the Associated Press reported.

According to police, Guzman was driving a Ford Explorer that collided with a motorcycle, killing 27-year-old motorcyclist Eleazar Garcia. The Dominican Republic National Police has filed a report and Guzman could learn Wednesday if charges will be filed.

The 20-year-old is two months removed from his third Minor League season and second with Class A Hickory, where he hit .218 with six homers and 63 RBIs in 118 games. The Rangers signed the left-handed hitter in July 2011.

In a statement, the Rangers said, "We are in the process of gathering all the information and facts concerning the accident, and it would be inappropriate to comment any further at this time. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Mr. Garcia during this very difficult time."

The accident occurred less than a month after Cardinals outfielder Oscar Taveras was killed in a crash less than 60 miles north in Puerto Plata. Last week, Rangers general manager Jon Daniels told the Dallas Morning News the organization was aware of the dangers associated with driving in the Dominican Republic.

"It's always on our minds," Daniels said. "This is a real issue."