The New York Yankees are one of the most recognized and celebrated franchises in all of sports. Known for their iconic pinstriped uniforms and world-famous “NY” logo, the Yankees have built a legacy that extends far beyond baseball and into the realms of fashion and pop culture. Their widespread influence makes them a favorite team for many aspiring players—veteran reliever Fernando Cruz among them.
Fernando Cruz’s Unhittable Splitters. 😯 pic.twitter.com/DJLwtjuPlC
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) April 23, 2025
Cruz, who hails from Bayamón, Puerto Rico, recently shared his lifelong love for the Yankees during an appearance on the team’s official podcast. The 35-year-old pitcher reflected on what it means to finally wear the legendary pinstripes and shared a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, who passed away in 2021.
He spoke emotionally about how his mother supported his passion, even buying him nearly every version of the Yankees cap and jersey available. “Every day I wake up and ask, what would my mom say? What would her reaction be right now, knowing I’m playing for the Yankees?” Cruz said. “My room was all Yankees. Everything was Yankees.”
“I get chills every day when I put pinstripes on.”
A lifelong Yankees fan, Fernando Cruz shares his inspirational journey on the newest episode of The New York Yankees Official Podcast 🎙️👉https://t.co/OSuWNlhdkf pic.twitter.com/qHyXeQoVgm
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) April 24, 2025
Cruz’s journey to the majors wasn’t easy. Drafted by the Kansas City Royals in 2007, he spent more than a decade playing in the minor leagues and overseas, including in Mexico. It wasn’t until 2022 that he finally made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds. Now, he’s living the dream, playing for the team he admired as a kid.
“What would I say to her? ‘Mama, I’m here. I’m playing for the Yankees, the team I’ve dreamed about all my life. I’m fighting to help my team win,’” he said, describing the emotional weight of his achievement.
This season, Cruz has been a vital part of the Yankees’ bullpen. Although New York is off to a strong start in the American League, the team is still looking to settle some questions regarding the roster. One area of concern is closer Devin Williams, who has yet to find his form since joining the team.
Despite this, manager Aaron Boone has had dependable relief options, including Cruz, who has delivered a strong performance with a 2.08 ERA, 2 saves, and 21 strikeouts in just 13 innings pitched. Alongside relievers like Luke Weaver and Mark Leiter Jr., Cruz provides the team with stability during high-pressure situations.
For many fans, it’s impossible not to root for Fernando Cruz—a player who spent years grinding for a shot in the majors and is now pitching for the team he’s adored his whole life.