Mother of Pirates catcher Diaz rescued in Venezuela after kidnapping

The mother of Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Elias Diaz has been rescued three days after she was kidnapped, Venezuelan authorities announced, according to the Associated Press.

Ana Isabel Soto, 72, was kidnapped in the city of San Francisco in the state of Zulia on Thursday and was rescued Sunday by security officers and a combination of police forces, according to a tweet by state Gov. Omar Prieto.

Venezuelan media reports that Soto was kidnapped by three armed men at her home, and five officers have apparently been arrested.

Prieto has ordered state police to investigate a police anti-drug team for possible involvement in the incident.

In a statement released Monday, Pirates president Frank Coonelly said the team is "relieved and overjoyed" to hear of Soto's safe rescue, and added that they're "incredibly grateful for the swift and effective work of the local law enforcement officials in Venezuela."

The 27-year-old catcher appeared in 64 games for Pittsburgh last season, hitting .223/.265/.314 with one home run and 19 RBIs.

Diaz is expected to report to spring training later Monday, according to Rob Biertempfel of The Athletic.