Before coming to the United States to play professional baseball, Mets closer Jeurys Familia had never spent a single night away from his parents. In the offseason the 26-year-old right-hander still lives in the Dominican Republic, where he built a five-bedroom house for his parents and siblings.
"Familia" isn't just the All-Star's last name; it's a mindset.
That steady consistency has transferred to the ballfield, too. Familia's 27 saves prior to his first All-Star Game were the most in Mets history for the first half.
Familia has now converted 35 of 35 save opportunities this season and just took over sole possession of fourth place all-time with his 50th consecutive regular-season save -- trailing only Eric Gagne (84), Tom Gordon (54) and Jose Valverde (51) -- dating back to the 2015 season.
Where does it come from? Familia's father worked in the military and part-time at a gas station. His mom worked at a small boutique, together supporting five children. They instilled the value of family togetherness in all of their offspring.
Growing up in Santo Domingo, Familia played basketball as a child. When his friends stopped showing up to the courts, preferring baseball to basketball, Familia followed suit. It proved to be a good decision.
Asked what he enjoys outside of baseball, Familia lists activities like going to the beach, watching movies and listening to music. Most importantly, spending time with family is always on that list.
Familia started his own family with his fiancée, Bianca Rivas, just over a year ago, on June 12, 2015. While his father pitched during the ninth inning of the Mets' game that day against the Braves, Jeurys Jr. was born. And yes, Familia notched a save to clinch a Mets win.
While New York games are considered "home" for Familia, who was drafted by the Mets in 2007, his real home will remain whereever his family may be.
***
More from #MLBPlayers411:

• Familia's favorite player is Pedro Martinez.
• In 2014, Familia had 23 holds, the most in team history for a rookie. He also made 76 appearances that year, establishing another franchise record.
• The food he misses most from home is Dominican dumplings.
• At 6-foot-3 he was the largest elf in team history at the 2014 Mets Holiday Party, held annually for local school children in Queens.