Reigning American League Rookie of the Year Julio Rodríguez began 2023 with a heartfelt gesture toward his hometown of Loma de Cabrera in the Dominican Republic.
On Friday, Rodríguez donated an ambulance at the city’s civil defense headquarters, according to z101 Digital’s Héctor Gómez. Prior to the donation, the city did not have an ambulance for emergencies. Rodríguez also gifted toys and baseball equipment to local children.
The 22-year-old outfielder became the fastest player in AL/NL history to reach 25 home runs and 25 steals before signing a massive contract extension with the Mariners last year, one that could reach $470 million through 2039. He also wowed the baseball world during last summer’s Home Run Derby at Dodger Stadium and helped lead Seattle to its first postseason appearance in 21 years.
Wearing a pink Mariners cap and donning a neon orange Loma de Cabrera Civil Defense vest with his name under the department’s patch, Rodríguez accepted an award from local leaders and addressed the crowd on hand for the ceremony.
Following a tremendous first year in the Majors, J-Rod returned to his hometown and gave back to his community in a big way, providing a much-needed emergency medical vehicle while also bringing smiles to the faces of local children with his generous donations of toys and equipment that can help them fulfill their own baseball dreams.