The Red Sox’s Enmanuel Valdez helped kick off MLB’s 2024 World Tour in the Dominican Republic with a swing on Saturday.
Valdez, a local player for the San Juan de los Angeles Maguana, hit a solo home run in the top of the sixth at the Quisqueya Juan Marichal Stadium in Santo Domingo.
The 25-year-old infielder gave Boston a 4-0 lead, sealing the win with his home home run in the first of two sets.
Red Sox Spanish-language announcer Nilson Pepen got the call for WAMG 890 AM (Boston).
After the game, Valdez talked about what his new home run meant to him.
“It’s unforgettable,” Valdez said of the feat performed in front of his circle of family and friends. “It’s just an amazing experience. “
Valdez is one of several Dominican-born players returning home this weekend. Brayan Bello, who signed a six-year, $55 million contract extension with the Red Sox on Thursday, held his news conference in the Dominican Republic. circle of family and friends on Saturday. Bello is originally from Samaná.
Pablo Reyes, Joely Rodriguez and Rafael Devers are among the Dominican-born players who will play in Boston this weekend in their home country.
Devers, a Sanchez native, got to play in front of his grandparents for the first time as a Red Sox on Saturday.