Title: Cuban Outfielders Randy Arozarena and Adolis Garcia Reunite at All-Star Game
Subtitle: Close friendship and shared experiences root for a friendly competition in this year’s All-Star Game Home Run Derby
Date: [Date]
In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, Cuban-born outfielders Randy Arozarena and Adolis Garcia are set to face each other in the upcoming All-Star Game and Home Run Derby. Their shared journey from playing against each other in Cuba to becoming breakout stars in Major League Baseball (MLB) has forged a deep bond between them.
Arozarena, who recently won the American League Rookie of the Year award for 2021, expressed his desire to share the honor with Garcia, who placed fourth in the voting. The duo has been inseparable, from being roommates during their first spring training as members of the Cardinals organization in 2017 to offering each other advice throughout their careers.
Notably, Arozarena holds Garcia in such high regard that he named him the godfather of his daughter. Reflecting on their unique connection, Arozarena remarked, “I think God intentionally put us on the same team… Both he and I have given each other a lot of advice. We give each other advice, and I’m glad that when he achieves something, he’s just as happy when I achieve things.”
Their daily conversations span topics ranging from baseball to family matters, illustrating the strong bond they share. This year’s All-Star Game holds a special significance as it marks the first time both players will participate in the Home Run Derby. While Arozarena initially hoped they would not compete against each other, the prospect of going head-to-head has only intensified their friendly competition.
Expressing his happiness about competing against Garcia, Arozarena said, “I feel very happy to be able to compete with him… Obviously, we are very good friends. Word hadn’t really gotten out that he was going to participate, still in public, but he had told me that he was going to compete. So I said, ‘I hope we don’t go against each other.'”
Garcia, known for his formidable power, jokingly expressed confidence in triumphing over his friend in the Home Run Derby. Acknowledging that both are exceptionally talented, Garcia hinted at his superior performance this season, having hit 23 home runs compared to Arozarena’s 16.
However, the two outfielders have agreed to treat the occasion as a shared victory, no matter who wins. “We are going to try to share the victory, because we said that if I lose against him, he is going to win the Derby, and if I win him, then I am going to win the Derby,” Arozarena shared.
Beyond the competition, Arozarena and Garcia are immensely grateful for the opportunity to play and compete against each other after their arduous journeys to stardom. Their paths, which have seen setbacks and triumphs alike, have now converged as they patrol the American League outfield together at T-Mobile Park.
Reflecting on the reunion, Garcia expressed his excitement, stating, “It’s great to be on the same ground as my old friend. It’s something that everyone looks forward to in our hometown.”
The remarkable story of these two Cuban outfielders, who started as young boys playing against each other in Cuba and have now emerged as stars on the biggest stage in MLB, serves as an inspiration to all. Their friendship and shared experiences have transcended individual success to create an enduring bond that will continue to shape their careers and lives.