5 Facts You Didn't Know About Back-To-Back HR Derby Champ Yoenis Cespedes
One of the most talked about names in baseball this season, Oakland's Yoenis Cespedes, is the first back-to-back Homerun Derby Champion in 15 years.
In June it was the "out" seen around the world; Cespedes nailed Howie Kendrick at home from 300 plus feet away with one of the most impressive throws you’ve ever seen.
Once again, he’s the name on every sports announcer’s lips but what do you really know about this Cuban powerhouse center fielder with an amazing arm?
Here are a few facts:
1. It's in his blood.
His Mother Estela Milanes was a softball pitcher for Cuba in the 2000 Summer Olympic Games. His father was a catcher for the Cuban League.
2. He's A Survivor
He defected from Cuba to the Dominican Republic with ten family members.
3. He's An Internet Sensation
Cespedes’ handlers released a marketing video of Cespedes training and working-out when he was trying to get picked up by the MLB. It's so over-the-top, it went viral.
Check it out:
4. He Has A Nickname
In Cuba they called him “El Talento Or La Potencia” which translates to Talent Or Power.
5. He's One Of A Kind
When Cespedes won the 2013 Home Run Derby by beating out Bryce Harper of the Nationals. He was the first player to win who wasn't actually chosen for his league's All-Star Team.