Joshua Báez makes MLB history: An unprecedented debut with the Cardinals
Major League Baseball witnessed an unparalleled event thanks to the performance of Dominican outfielder Joshua Báez. At just 23 years old, the St. Louis Cardinals prospect became the first player in MLB history to hit home runs in each of his first three plate appearances at the highest level.
The feat occurred last Saturday during a matchup against the Chicago Cubs, marking a milestone that immediately places the young talent in the record books. Báez, who is listed as the number 3 prospect in the St. Louis organization and number 59 in the overall MLB Pipeline rankings, was selected in the second round of the 2021 Draft.
Roots and training of an exceptional talent
Although born in Boston, Báez maintains a close bond with the Dominican Republic, having lived in Santo Domingo during his childhood until the age of 11. His journey has been marked by personal overcoming; after moving to the Dorchester neighborhood, he learned English as a self-taught student and stood out as an honor student in demanding academic environments.
His development as an athlete began at an early age in the Next Level program, where he polished the physical tools that define him today as one of the most complete ballplayers of his generation.
Power is Báez’s primary tool, graded at 60 out of 80 by scouts, in addition to having a powerful arm that receives the same rating.
Power and discipline: Beyond the home runs
Báez’s ability to connect on long-range hits is nothing new. Throughout his time in baseball, he has demonstrated extraordinary power, including a historic home run that cleared the scoreboard at Dunkin’ Donuts Park, a feat that had not been recorded previously at that stadium. This season, the Dominican has accumulated 37 home runs between Triple-A and the Major Leagues, highlighted by a massive 473-foot grand slam.
A family and multifaceted legacy
- Legacy: His father, José Manuel Báez, was his main inspiration. Joshua has honored the promise of achieving the Major League dream they both shared.
- Versatility: In addition to his power, Báez possesses elite speed. During his time in the Minor Leagues, he recorded 149 stolen bases in 452 games.
- Athletic ability: During his school years, he reached pitches of up to 98 miles per hour, demonstrating his ability as a two-way player.
With this stellar debut, Joshua Báez not only establishes himself as a key piece for the future of the St. Louis Cardinals, but also reaffirms the impact and quality of Dominican talent in American professional baseball.
