Manuel De Jesus Rodríguez was born on June 8, 1996, in Merida, Mexico. Growing up in a supportive and loving family, he developed a passion for baseball at a young age. His talent quickly became evident as he excelled in the sport, catching the attention of scouts early on.
At the age of 20, Manuel signed with the Washington Nationals as an international free agent in 2016. This marked the beginning of his professional baseball career and opened up new opportunities for him to showcase his skills on a larger stage.
Prior to signing with the Nationals, Manuel played professionally in the Mexican league as a member of the Leones de Yucatán baseball team. He spent three seasons with the team, honing his craft and making a name for himself in the league. In 2015, he was named the Mexican League Rookie of the Year, a testament to his talent and dedication to the sport.
His success in Mexico paved the way for his transition to the United States, where he would continue to pursue his dream of playing in the MLB.
After signing with the Nationals, Manuel began his journey in the US playing for the Eugene Emeralds. His hard work and determination paid off when he was later signed to the MLB and made his debut with the Chicago Cubs in 2021.
On July 30, 2021, Manuel took the mound for his official major league debut, facing off against his former team, the Washington Nationals. In just one inning pitched, he recorded two strikeouts, showcasing his impressive pitching abilities and leaving a lasting impression on fans and spectators alike.
Despite his busy schedule and demanding career, Manuel has always made time for his family, who have been his biggest supporters throughout his journey to the top. He credits them for instilling in him the values of hard work, perseverance, and dedication, which have been instrumental in his success on and off the field.
During his MLB debut, Manuel had the opportunity to play alongside Juan Soto, a fellow talented player who shares his passion for the game. Their collaboration on the field served as a reminder of the camaraderie and teamwork that are essential in the world of baseball.
As Manuel continues to make a name for himself in the MLB, he remains grateful for the opportunities that have come his way and looks forward to a promising future filled with more accomplishments and milestones.