DENVER (AP) — Starting pitcher Freddy Peralta from the Brewers spent 30 minutes on Wednesday out on the grass at Coors Field having a conversation with a Colorado Rockies relief pitcher.
It's the same relief pitcher who had coffee with him a few hours ago and ate dinner with the previous evening.
Just an opportunity to reconnect with his little bro, Luis.
The siblings hailing from the Dominican Republic are making the most of their chance to converse during a three-game set in Denver. Even though they speak daily online, nothing compares to meeting in person. While their parents won't be able to join them in Denver, the family intends to gather for a get-together when Colorado faces off against Milwaukee in late June.
We have an extremely tight-knit family," stated Freddy Peralta, aged 28, after witnessing his sibling permit one unearned run during 1 2/3 innings on Wednesday evening. "Being able to share this experience with my brother means everything to me. Every moment like this is precious since none of us can predict how long our journey together will last in the major leagues. It feels surreal; it truly is a cherished dream come true.
After Freddy pitched an impressive five consecutive innings and conceded only one run to secure his initial victory of the campaign on Tuesday evening, the siblings found themselves with much to talk about. They originally intended to locate a dining spot within the city center. However, Luis extended an invitation for them to join him at his place where he could prepare traditional Venezuelan-style arepas filled with various ingredients instead.
"They were really great," Freddy stated.
The same applies to the company, which is why they had a meeting over coffee prior to Wednesday’s game.
Freddy lights up whenever he talks about his 24-year-old brother. This is the same boy who would tag along behind Freddy to the baseball diamond and the one for whom Freddy would hit ground balls as hard as possible just to test his skills. The young man who holds such an important place in his heart.
He aims to emulate someone like me—a dedicated individual with a strong desire to learn," Freddy stated. "He constantly seeks advice from those surrounding him, including fellow players, on ways to improve. This is particularly commendable for someone so young who isn’t afraid to ask for assistance. His competitive spirit truly stands out.
For that, Luis understands when to acknowledge others.
(Freddy) always looking after me, taking me to the fields, and showing discipline during games," Luis said via a translator. "I learned this from my brother.
In 2013, Freddy embarked on his baseball journey by signing as an amateur free agent with the Seattle team. On December 9, 2015, the Mariners exchanged him together with two additional pitchers for Adam Lind; he has since been playing his eighth season with the Brewers, achieving a record of 54 wins against 37 losses and maintaining an ERA of 3.75.
Every time he returned home each season, Freddy would bring Luis along for workouts and practice sessions. At about 15 years old, Luis started concentrating more on pitching, having been an outfielder previously.
"It was the correct choice," Freddy stated about the change with a chuckle.
In 2017, Luis was brought onto the Pittsburgh Pirates team before being exchanged to the Rockies in the previous July. Since then, he has achieved a record of 1-1 with an impressive earned run average (ERA) of 2.16 across 20 relief outings. Additionally, he has sought guidance from his sibling, particularly during his debut season as a rookie.
He's a good person, but I ensured he knew how to act nicely. When veterans request something from you, simply comply with their wishes,” Freddy shared. "I advised him, 'Always be your genuine self when you step onto the field... stay kind and remain modest.’ That’s who he is. I merely reinforce this for his benefit. I feel incredibly proud of him.
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