Rienzo Becomes First Brazilian MLB Pitcher

By April Whitzman, @AlleyCat17

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White Sox rookie Andre Rienzo made his Major League debut on Tuesday, becoming the first Brazilian-born pitcher to appear in an MLB game. Rienzo, a 25-year-old right-hander, did not allow an earned run in seven impressive innings. Interestingly, he also faced Yan Gomes, the first Brazilian-born MLB player.

Gomes was the ultimate victor on the night, collecting a hit in their first confrontation. The Indians rallied in the bottom of the eighth to give Rienzo the no-decision and the Tribe a 7-4 win. Pra Caramba!

Rienzo is the first Brazilian born player to pitch in @MLB. He’ll be facing off against another Brazilian player, @Indians @Yan_AGomes
— 2013 WBC (@WBCBaseball) July 30, 2013

#WhiteSox Andre Rienzo becomes 1st Brazilian pitcher in @MLB! Only 5H in 7IP! One was to fellow Brazilian, Yan Gomes. pic.twitter.com/znde9L92sO
— April Whitzman (@Alleycat17) July 31, 2013

Yan Gomes wins the 1st Battle of Brazil in baseball history with a single to center off Andre Rienzo in the 3rd inning.
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) July 30, 2013