In the Dominican Republic, where three out of ten people live in poverty, baseball offers a beacon of hope for many youths. For Alberto, a manager and scout at a local baseball academy, the sport is more than just a game—it’s embedded in the culture and spirit of the Dominican people.
“To be a good baseball player, you have to use your mind and heart. The best players are Dominican because we carry it in our blood,” says 15-year-old aspiring baseball player, Jelfrey Marte, with enthusiasm.
The baseball academy where Alberto works is dedicated to helping kids stay in school while nurturing their athletic talents. Their goal is to provide these young athletes with the opportunity to one day play for Major League Baseball (MLB), the oldest professional sports league in the United States and Canada, founded in 1903.
MLB invests approximately $125 million annually in developing new talent in the Dominican Republic. Remarkably, about 10 percent of MLB players hail from this Caribbean nation, more than from any other foreign country. This significant representation underscores the deep connection between the Dominican Republic and baseball.
For many young Dominicans, baseball is not just a pastime but a potential pathway out of poverty. The sport offers a chance to achieve personal success and bring prosperity to their families and communities. Academies like Alberto’s play a crucial role in guiding these youths towards their dreams, emphasizing education alongside athletic development.
“Baseball runs in our blood; it’s in our culture,” Alberto reflects. “Our academy exists to help kids stay in school and give them the ability to play for the MLB.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
