Oneil Cruz was born on April 10, 1998, in Nizao, Dominican Republic, to his father, Rafael, who was a former professional baseball player. Growing up, Oneil was surrounded by the sport and developed a passion for it at an early age. He showed remarkable talent and skill on the field, catching the attention of scouts at a young age.
In 2015, Oneil Cruz was signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers as an international free agent, marking the beginning of his professional career. He started playing for the Dodgers' rookie affiliate team, the DSL Dodgers, where he honed his skills and continued to impress with his performance on the field.
In July 2017, Oneil Cruz was acquired by the Pittsburgh Pirates via trade, signaling a new chapter in his baseball journey. The Pirates saw great potential in Cruz and were eager to have him as part of their organization. With his talent and determination, Cruz quickly made a name for himself within the Pirates' farm system.
On October 2, 2021, Oneil Cruz made his major league debut playing against the Cincinnati Reds as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates. It was a significant moment for Cruz, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to the sport. His debut was a testament to his skills and potential as a professional infielder.
Off the field, Oneil Cruz is known for his close relationship with his family, especially his father, who has been a source of guidance and inspiration throughout his baseball career. Cruz values his family's support and credits them for helping him achieve his dreams in the sport.
Oneil Cruz's journey in professional baseball is just beginning, and he has already made a significant impact with his skills and dedication to the sport. As he continues to grow and develop as a player, Cruz is poised to achieve even greater success in the years to come.