Carbondale Reporter

Al Holguin, a left-handed pitcher for Southern Illinois University (SIU), is preparing to conclude his 18-year baseball career at the end of this season. Holguin, 22, takes pride in his heritage as the only Latino player on his team and incorporates his background into his game by wearing a glove featuring a Bible verse and two zip codes representing his parents' birthplace in Mexico and his own birthplace in Chicago.

Reflecting on his upcoming transition from playing to coaching travel baseball, Holguin expressed mixed emotions: "It will be a bittersweet moment with it coming to an end because I'm going to miss playing," he said. "But I'm excited because I'm going to continue coaching travel ball so I'm excited to do that."

Holguin grew up in a Latino community on the south side of Chicago, which he credits for shaping him into the person he is today. Despite being part of the largest minority group in Major League Baseball (MLB), Holguin has consistently been the only Latino player on his college teams. "It has been tough because in my college career, I've been the only Latino every year that I've been on a team," he noted.

His pitching coach at SIU, Austin Tribby, praised Holguin's skills and personality. "After one phone call with Al I knew he'd be a phenomenal addition to the pitching staff and team," Tribby stated. He also highlighted Holguin's experience as a Division I player and left-handed pitcher as valuable assets.

Holguin began playing baseball at age four, supported by parents who made significant sacrifices for him to pursue the sport. "My parents have been extremely supportive with missing days from work to take me to my out-of-town tournaments," said Holguin.

In addition to family support, faith plays an essential role in Holguin's life both on and off the field. He regularly attends Bible study sessions with teammates and friends. "I just see myself as someone who can be a light to other people around them," he shared.

As he enters his senior season with SIU Salukis starting in February, Holguin remains focused on playing not just for himself but also for where he came from. He emphasizes that baseball is part of his life but does not define him: "This game doesn't define you... it's something that's a part of my life."