Fernando Cruz's ascent to the Major Leagues with the New York Yankees after 16 years in the minors was heavily inspired by his late mother, Virginia Manon. A resident of the Dominican Republic, Manon's unwavering faith and words of encouragement motivated Cruz during his challenging career. Despite her passing from brain cancer in 2021, her predictions regarding Cruz's future in baseball proved accurate. He realized his dream of playing for the Yankees after a few pivotal years and her profound influence remained a driving force in his journey.
"It took me 16 years to get to the big leagues. And those 16 years, straight up, I was always thinking about those words. And here I am . . . living a dream every day."
"In 2019, she told me, 'Next year won't be your year, 2021 will be your year.'"
"I think she made a deal with God. Like, 'Alright, put my guys in the best position possible and take me with you.'"
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