After 13 seasons in the minors, Drew Maggi finally got his chance to play in the big leagues. The 33-year-old infielder, called up by the Pittsburgh Pirates earlier this week, made his first career at-bat on Wednesday night as a pinch hitter in the eighth inning. Despite striking out, he received a standing ovation from his teammates and the crowd at PNC Park. Maggi has played 1,155 games in the minors, with a career .254 average, 978 hits, 45 home runs, 354 RBIs, and 222 stolen bases since being drafted by the Pirates in 2010.
A Moment to Remember
Maggi’s debut was emotional for him and his family. “I saw my dad crying. I don’t think I ever saw him cry before. All those years, I wondered what I would say to my parents if that moment ever were to come. They’ve been right there with me,” Maggi said. He spent time after the game visiting with his family, who had made the trip from Phoenix, and hearing their words of encouragement. “I love you. We’re proud of you. You did it!” he said.
A Dream Fulfilled
Maggi’s long-awaited debut was worth the wait. “I love baseball,” he said. “I was grinding for 13 years, but I was doing what I loved. The ultimate goal is the big leagues. Just kind of getting here, my name is in history. I put on a big league uniform, and I shared the field with the world’s greatest players.” Maggi’s journey to the majors was not without setbacks, but he never lost his love for the game. “Through the journey, I thought I’d make my debut and it would be a normal at bat. Obviously special, but the crowd cheering my name, I got my parents here, my three brothers, a sister back at home. I mean, this is unbelievable. Thank you, everybody,” he said. Maggi’s perseverance and dedication to his dream have finally paid off.
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