Fonceca, Chad

Applicant Chad Fonceca, a California resident, claimed cumulative industrial injury while employed as a professional baseball player by the self-insured Cincinnati Reds from June 1, 1995 to October 1, 1996. The sole framed issue was whether the WCAB had personal jurisdiction over the out-of-state Cincinnati Reds. The WCJ found specific personal jurisdiction existed, and the Reds petitioned for reconsideration arguing they did not avail themselves of California and all injurious activities occurred outside the state. The Board affirmed, finding multiple California contacts: the applicant was scouted in California, signed his contract in Victorville, traveled to play at the Reds' expense, and during the off-season was directed by the Reds' scout (Mr. Cassero) to play junior college games in California during the claimed cumulative injury period. Relying on Martin v. Detroit Lions, the Board held these contacts satisfied due process and denied reconsideration.