Nelson Cruz's motivation to return to MLB in 2023

Nelson Cruz. Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Nelson Cruz reveals his motivation to return to MLB in 2023

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 10/3/22

It's been a rough season for Nelson Cruz. But the 42-year-old MLB veteran isn't ready to hang up his cleats just yet. Not just because he loves the game, but because of what his career means to other people.

In an interview with the Washington Post, Cruz talked about how his major league career has led to his community work both in the states and back in the Dominican Republic, and that he is afraid he won't be able to give the same aid if he calls it a career.

"Many people have benefited from it," Cruz said of the work he has done in the Dominican. "And I believe once I stop playing, that will be changed drastically. I won’t be able to provide like I used to."

And boy, has Cruz provided. His non-profit, Boomstick 23 Foundation, has helped do everything from paving roads to building a hospital and adding a computer center in his native Las Matas de Santa Cruz. His philanthropy and work abroad have earned him multiple accolades, including the 2020 ESPY'S Muhammed Ali Humanitarian Award and the 2021 Roberto Clemente Award.

Nelson Cruz is the 2021 Roberto Clemente Award winner!

Thanks to his charitable work in his native Dominican Republic, Cruz is the 50th winner of the prestigious honor. pic.twitter.com/8yRsLW9Ehr
— MLB (@MLB) October 27, 2021

His work off the field isn't the only reason Cruz wants to keep playing. As he points out multiple times in the interview, he still loves playing the game.

"If I don't feel like I am having fun, I will leave, you know?" Cruz said. "Everybody is here for different reasons. I play to win, to get to the championship, to win a World Series. That's the ultimate goal that we share. But it is not just my career. It is for everyone around me, too. A lot of people depend on if I play and how I play."

While the veteran DH hasn't played since mid-September and is coming off of a down season, there is no doubt a big league club will want him on their roster next season since he is widely considered a great clubhouse presence and mentor to younger players. CBS Sports speculates a club could bring him to be a platoon designated hitter, much like the St. Louis Cardinals did this past season with Albert Pujols.

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