Julio Rodríguez’s annual return home has always been with a full heart, and he’s voyaged back to the Dominican Republic in a big way this offseason.
The Mariners center fielder this week unveiled a massive overhaul to the fields that he quite literally grew up on, unveiling a state-of-the-art refurbishing to an amateur baseball/softball and soccer complex in his hometown of Loma de Cabrera.
The renovated complex includes three baseball fields (one main field and two T-ball fields), a soccer field, turf playing surfaces, professional drainage, stadium lighting, batting cages, bullpens, spectator stands and bathrooms -- providing children and families with access to modern, high-quality facilities while honoring the town’s deep connection to baseball.
Rodríguez made a personal investment of $1.3 million, and it was completed through his philanthropic foundations No Limits Foundation and Green Hope, with construction led by Orlova Group.
The unveiling ceremony brought together community members, youth athletes, government officials, partners and special guests to celebrate the field where Rodríguez grew up playing the game. Fellow MLB stars and VIPs joined Rodríguez in support of the community, including Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., Oneil Cruz, Christopher Morel and Ronel Blanco, as well as teammates Luis Castillo and Victor Robles, along with former Mariner Nelson Cruz.
“This field is where everything started for me,” Rodríguez said. “Being able to give back to Loma de Cabrera and create a place where kids can feel proud, feel safe and believe in themselves means everything. I want them to know there are no limits to what they can achieve.”