Adrian Gonzalez, Chula Vista’s own hometown baseball idol, is a man who obviously keeps his word, and on Oct. 25, the Gonzalez Sports Academy in Eastlake was buzzing with some baseball heroes from Mexico — Mexicali’s entry in the 2011 Little League World Series.
Gonzalez, a current first baseman for the Boston Red Sox and former Eastlake High School star, was the obvious center of attention for the Little Leaguers, who were given replica No. 28 Red Sox jerseys by the big league slugger.
The Gonzalez Sports Academy, which Adrian operates with his brother Edgar, invited the Little League World Series team to the academy for a special ceremony to honor it for its hard work and dedication to baseball.
During the Mexicali team’s 2011 Little League World Series run in August, Gonzalez called the young players, offering support, tips on the game, and a promise to do something special when his season ended with the Red Sox.
Edgar Gonzalez, who recently played for the San Francisco Giants’ AAA affiliate Fresno Grizzlies, also was present and served as co-master of ceremonies.
Besides receiving encouraging words and signed autographs from both Gonzalez brothers, the Mexicali team also went through a workout at the academy.
Adrian Gonzalez recently returned from his first season in Boston after spending five years with the hometown Padres. He and his wife Betsy are expecting their first child.
In 159 games for the Red Sox this season, Adrian Gonzalez hit .338 with 45 doubles, three triples, 27 home runs and 117 RBI. He notched a career-high 213 hits in 2011.
He is signed through the 2018 season with Boston.
Gonzalez made his Major League debut with the Texas Rangers in 2004. He has played five seasons in the National League (all with the Padres) and three seasons in the American League, including two previous years with the Rangers.
Edgar Gonzalez appeared in 137 games for the Grizzlies this past season with a .315 hitting average, 14 home runs and 82 RBI after spending the 2010 season in Japan.
Edgar Gonzalez played two seasons with the Padres at various positions, appearing in 193 games with a .255 hitting average and 43 RBI.
The Oct. 25 ceremony was among the many events, sports clinics and education initiatives hosted by the academy, which is located at 2390 Boswell Rd., Ste. 400, Chula Vista. For more information, call 600-3965.
