Pache won’t let language barrier impact bond with A’s fans originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
From Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic to Oakland, Calif., Cristian Pache has found a new home nearly 4,000 miles away.
And it hasn’t taken long for the A’s young outfielder to become a fan favorite in the East Bay.
Pache been one of the more involved voices on social media. He tweets in English, even though his primary language is Spanish, and explained why he feels it’s important to connect with fans.
“I have someone who helps me with my accounts,” Pache said in Spanish in an interview with Telemundo’s Carlos Yustis. “They tell me everything they are going to post and I always know what they are going to post.”
Pache was acquired from the Braves last month in a deal that sent Matt Olson to Atlanta. Although sad to leave the Braves, Pache made a promise to A’s fans early on.
And so far, that promise has held true.
“It’s important in the sport to leave everything on the field,” Pache told Yustis. “I’m so grateful for the opportunity that I have been given here in Oakland. They’re like family here and I have felt very welcomed, the fans are very enthusiastic and supportive which is really important.”
Pache’s elite defense has showed off his Gold Glove potential, but baseball lovers adore him for more than just what he can do on the field. It’s his genuineness and ability to connect with fans on another level that elevates who he is as a player and as an athlete.
On Sunday, Pache made one young fan’s day after a Twitter exchange led to the two meeting in person.
Pache even gifted the boy with an autographed baseball bat.
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While the 23-year-old has showed early signs of a promising future, his humility should serve as a reminder that anything is possible, regardless of where you come from.
You can watch the full interview with Pache during “A’s Pregame Live” on Wednesday, April 27.