MLB 2024: Indian-Origin star Kumar Rocker writes new chapter in MLB History books

Indian-origin pitcher Kumar Rocker made his Major League Baseball debut for the Texas Rangers against the Seattle Mariners. He became the first Indian-descent player to participate in the Major League Baseball. Making this already special match even more memorable was the fact that his parents were present on the ground to witness him making history. 

About Kumar Rocker

Kumar Rocker is born to an African-American father and Indian- American mother. He recently went through a Tommy John surgery. Tommy John Surgery, more formally known as ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction, is used to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament inside the elbow. 

A UCL is a ligament on the inner side of your elbow that helps secure your elbow joint. Kumar's parents Lalitha and Tracy met each other during her education at the University of Maryland and Tracy was a player for the Washington redskins.

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Rocker's MLB appearance

The rocker had an impressive performance in his debut performance. He became a testimony to the growing diversity in American sports. He was the No. 3 pick of the 2022 MLB Draft (and No. 10 pick of the 2021 draft). He struck out seven for the Texas Rangers while allowing three hits, two walks and a pivotal run in four innings. Texas Rangers secured a 5-4 win over the Seattle Mariners on Thursday.

“It means a lot to me. I think it means more to my mom. She always let me know that I was Indian growing up, being half and half. And I think she is going to be really happy about it,” Kumar said on his debut.

His parents on debut

 

“It’s been an incredible journey and he has just come out fighting, putting his head down and, and just, just working hard. And he did phenomenal. He was so good out there. That is the nastiest pitch. He gets that from his dad, he has been training for a very long time. His dad gave him great advice: just get out there and you take control and all the skill form his mom.”  his mom Lu said to PTI.

 

We were in shock. I mean, this is just so amazing to see. We talk about this all the time. How these debuts are a dream come true for parents, for the kids.” Is this something you always saw him doing? You did football also, so was baseball always a part of the plan? His father said.

 

 

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