Robinson Canó says the tribute in New York will have a special place in his heart

United States.- Baseball player Robinson Canó did not hide his emotion when honored this Saturday in the match between the teams of the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico at Citi Field in New York, indicating that what happened today will always be present in a special way in his memory. "This will be a day that will occupy a place in my heart," said Cano when speaking to the press at Citi Field, where the selections of the Dominican Republic Professional Baseball League (Lidom) and Roberto Clemente Professional Baseball (Lbprc) held a match to honor the careers of the veteran Dominican third baseman and former slugger Carlos Delgado. The player, who highlighted that this type of recognition is a reward for the work a player does on and off the field, added that "as a player, to look back and have this type of tribute or recognition made for me is an honor and means a lot".

"One always dreams as a player to have a successful career and to be recognized for the trajectory, all that work that has been done outside and during the season," explained the veteran infielder.

Canó, who started the game as second baseman and third in the batting order, was removed from the field, amidst tears and cheers from those present, by his compatriot and former Mets player, Luis Castillo.

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One might think that, at 43 years old, this tribute would be a farewell to baseball for Ca, but the reality is not that, according to what the 2009 World Series champion with the Yankees explained. "It's not a retirement from baseball, but a tribute, since in baseball after you pass 35 years old it gets difficult and I've been out of the Major Leagues for several years," said Canó, who revealed that the president of the Dominican National Players Federation, Erik Almonte, called him and offered him to be honored at this encounter between the main rivalry in Caribbean baseball. When referring to the willingness he has always shown to wear the Dominican Republic's jacket, Canó indicated that it is a source of pride for every Dominican to represent their country. "As a Dominican, not only in sports, in any field, we always feel proud of our flag," said Canó, who holds the crowns of the World Baseball Classic and the Caribbean Series representing the Dominican Republic.