How mother's request changed Ortiz's life

Luis Ortiz returned to the Dominican Republic to support his grieving mother, Damaris, during a difficult time, highlighting the importance of family in his life. Damaris requested Ortiz to play baseball for one more week, which reignited his passion for the sport after he had given up on his Major League dreams. Shortly after agreeing to play, Ortiz was discovered by the Pirates, leading to a significant turning point in his baseball career. Ortiz's commitment to his mother motivated him to succeed, as he promised not to let her down after signing with the Pirates. Despite early struggles in his career, including being released by multiple teams, Ortiz persevered and eventually rose through the ranks to pitch in Yankee Stadium by September 2022. Financial hardships forced Ortiz to abandon baseball for a time, as his family needed him to work in construction and agriculture. Damaris worked multiple jobs to support Ortiz's return to baseball, showcasing her dedication and sacrifice for her son's dreams. Ortiz's transition from infield to pitching was challenging, but his persistence and development of new skills, like fastball velocity, contributed to his success. The support from his family has been crucial throughout Ortiz's career, helping him stay motivated despite negative external influences. Ortiz's journey reflects the themes of resilience, familial support, and the pursuit of dreams despite adversity, emphasizing how personal struggles can lead to growth and success.

Original Article: https://www.mlb.com/pirates/news/luis-ortiz-influenced-by-mother-to-continue-major-league-pursuit

Original Article Author: Alex Stumpf