Yohendrick Pinango, a promising outfielder for the Toronto Blue Jays, carries a deep personal connection to his late father, Alexander “Reyito” Pinango, through his tattoos and aspirations in baseball. The ink on his skin symbolizes both love and loss. On his right arm, a sleeve features an image of his father along with heartfelt words that express their bond across life and death.
Pinango’s Heartfelt Tribute
Pinango’s tribute includes the phrase in Spanish: “fu en cielo, yo en la tierra, un solo corazón,” which translates to “you are in heaven, I’m on Earth, one heart.” His father was murdered when Yohendrick was just six years old, a tragedy that impacted his family profoundly. Reyito was a multifaceted athlete, excelling in basketball while also enjoying volleyball and baseball recreationally.
A Father’s Legacy
From a young age, Reyito instilled the love of sports in his son. Although Reyito passed away in 2008, he had already entrusted his older sister, Noris, with Yohendrick’s upbringing. She took on the role of guardian with the support of their mother, Yarbelys, nurturing Pinango’s baseball talent while also encouraging academic pursuits.
Yohendrick began playing in local leagues at the age of seven, quickly gaining recognition by leading his team to a championship. His prowess on the field earned him a spot at an academy called Future Stars, where he developed his skills further. At 13, he hit for the cycle during a game that caught the attention of scouts.
- Key Dates:
- Death of Reyito: May 11, 2008
- Pinango joined the Cubs: 2018
- Trade to Blue Jays: July 27, 2024
Path to the Majors
After spending over five years in the Chicago Cubs system, Pinango was traded to the Blue Jays as part of a deadline deal. Initially surprised, he viewed the trade as a fresh opportunity. Known for his aggressive batting style, he quickly caught the attention of Blue Jays management.
During the 2024 season, Pinango saw considerable success in winter ball and double-A before receiving a promotion to triple-A Buffalo, where he posted impressive stats. His performance led to a call-up to the majors, filling a gap in the lineup due to injuries.
Living Up to Expectations
Pinango approaches each game with a determination that reflects his father’s spirit. Coaches have praised his fearless hitting approach, noting his intent to make impactful plays on the field. He believes his father would have admired his tenacity and competitive spirit, paralleling Reyito’s own on-court demeanor.
On his forearm, another poignant phrase reads, “No todo lo que, tiene Vida Vivo, No todo lo que, Muere a Muerto,” meaning “not everything that lives is alive, not everything that dies is dead.” This sentiment encapsulates Yohendrick’s daily struggle to honor his father’s memory through his achievements.
While navigating the challenges of life without his father, Pinango remains committed to realizing one of Reyito’s dreams: becoming a major league baseball player. As he continues to excel, he carries his father’s legacy into every game.
