Marlins’ Jesus Sanchez gained strength from fan

HOUSTON – In the midst of a slump in 2021, Jesus Sanchez was optioned back to Class AAA in Jacksonville to figure out his approach at the plate. It was a dark time for Sanchez because he returned to the minors after earning a promotion to the majors a season earlier. 

Sanchez admittedly lost all hope and confidence in his ability even after posting sensational numbers in the minors. 

During pregame warmups in Jacksonville the native of Higuey, Dominican Republic, heard a fan calling his name. Instead of degrading taunts about his performance, Sanchez received words of encouragement from the fan who later became a friend. 

Matthew Shonder, the fan who yelled positive affirmations at him, helped Sanchez adapt by reminding the young outfielder that he is a great player. Sanchez and Shonder are friends who still keep in touch.

Even now when he finds himself struggling, Sanchez remembers the advice his good friend told him. 

“Honestly, God, my family and especially Matthew Shonder was a key person who helped me,” Sanchez said. “He was my mentor, a person who told me, ‘Take it easy. You can do this.’ He was always there to help me strengthen my mind.”

Powerful Sanchez

Sanchez, 26, developed his baseball talent in his hometown. He was initially a right-handed hitter. He was 8 years old when his older brother persuaded him to train from the left side of the plate. The change worked for Sanchez, considering he’s shown tremendous power from that side of the plate. 

“He’s one of the better hitters on our team against righties,” Miami Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said, “but potentially in the league because of his power. He missed hit that ball (on Tuesday) and it went out. He is one of the stronger kids in the game.” 

Jesús Sánchez ties the game with his solo home run! pic.twitter.com/Pfsw4UO6TB

— Miami Marlins (@Marlins) July 10, 2024

The lefty slugger’s power at the plate allowed him to live both of his dreams. Since he was a boy, Jesus Sanchez dreamed of playing in the majors and also playing for los Toros del Este in the Dominican Republic Winter League. He fantasized about his family and fans watching him play baseball on television. 

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Sanchez was signed by the Tampa Bay Rays as a 16-year-old international prospect. After three years in the minors, Sanchez achieved his first dream. In 2017, he played winter ball for los Toros del Este. He has played with them whenever he has the chance ever since. 

Sanchez vividly cherished the memory of having his parents in attendance while facing rivals Las Estrellas Orientales in La Romana, D.R. His parents’ joy that day sticks in his mind.

“Seeing my parents gave me a lot of emotion and happiness,” Sanchez said. “My parents were also very ecstatic watching me with the Toros.”

Jesus Sanchez feels at home

The 6-foot-3 outfielder has felt at home playing for the Marlins. The strong Dominican presence in Miami has been a wonderful experience. Many Marlins teammates also share his hometown roots. 

Jesus Sanchez sports a sleeve that features the Dominican flag’s colors. He is reminded occasionally by teammate Bryan De La Cruz that they are representing their country on the field and need to carry themselves to a higher standard. 

“I’m very happy because I’ve had the chance to play with Bryan, Sandy Alcantara, and Vidal Brujan,” Sanchez said. “I also feel proud because we are opening doors for Dominicans in the United States by showing them we have so much talent.”