Brother of Cubs' Blanco believed to be killed by kidnappers in Venezuela

CARACAS, Venezuela -- The brother of major league catcher Henry Blanco was killed in Venezuela.

Police believe that 39-year-old Carlos Simon Blanco was murdered by kidnappers after they abducted him Sunday in Guarenas, a Caracas suburb. Police found the victim's bullet-riddled body on Monday.

Authorities think the kidnappers were seeking ransom for Blanco's release, according to a statement released Tuesday by Venezuela's Attorney General's Office.

Henry Blanco was a backup catcher for the Chicago Cubs this season. He is currently a free agent.