The World Series, the pinnacle of professional baseball, awards the prestigious Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, a recognition reserved for athletes who transcend in crucial moments.
In MLB history, only five Dominicans have been awarded this title in the World Series. Below, a review of the memorable performances of Pedro Guerrero, José Rijo, Manny Ramírez, David Ortiz, and Jeremy Peña, who have elevated Dominican baseball on the world stage.
Pedro Guerrero: An Impactful Debut
In the 1981 World Series, Pedro Guerrero became the first Dominican to win the MVP award. He shared the honor with Ron Cey and Steve Yeager, after a standout performance in the series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees. Guerrero displayed a batting average of .333, hitting two home runs and driving in seven runs, demonstrating his value as a key hitter in the postseason.
José Rijo: Dominio Desde el Montículo
In the 1990 World Series, José Rijo led the Cincinnati Reds to victory over the Oakland Athletics. Rijo pitched two complete games, allowing only one earned run in 15.2 innings. His performance included 14 strikeouts and only 9 hits allowed, solidifying his dominance on the mound and securing the Reds’ victory in four games.
Manny Ramírez: A Clutch Hitter
Manny Ramírez was fundamental in the Boston Red Sox’s victory over the St. Louis Cardinals in the 2004 World Series. Ramírez achieved a batting average of .412, with a home run and four RBIs, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure. His performance was crucial for the Red Sox to win the series in four games, breaking a long title drought.
David Ortiz: A Postseason Leader
In the 2013 World Series, David Ortiz led the Boston Red Sox to victory over the St. Louis Cardinals. Ortiz recorded an impressive batting average of .688, with two home runs and six RBIs, demonstrating his ability to perform in critical moments. His statistics, including an on-base percentage of .760 and a slugging percentage of 1.188, established him as one of the most outstanding hitters of the postseason.
Jeremy Peña: A Sensational Rookie
In the 2022 World Series, Jeremy Peña became the youngest player to win the MVP award. Peña batted .400, with a home run and three RBIs, demonstrating his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. His performance included an on-base percentage of .423 and a slugging percentage of .600, solidifying him as one of the most outstanding players of the series.
These five Dominicans have demonstrated their excellence and dedication in baseball, raising the pride of the Dominican Republic worldwide. Their performances in the World Series will endure in the memory of the fans.
