7x All-Star Nelson Cruz lands new MLB role with focus on topic in Latin America

Nelson Cruz recently retired following the end of the 2023 season. He enjoyed a 19-year career in the big leagues, where he became a seven-time All-Star and a four-time Silver Slugger.

On Opening Day, Cruz signed a one-day contract and retired as a member of the Seattle Mariners. While his playing days may be over, his time within the league is not.

It was announced on Friday that Cruz has accepted a new role within MLB. He is now a Special Advisor for Baseball Operations and will serve as a liaison for the league with a focus on Latin America topics.

Cruz will focus on growing the league's existing players relations function. As somebody who won the Roberto Clemente Award in 2021, the league could not have picked a better representative.

Cruz is not the only former player working closely with the league. He joins CC Sabathia, Albert Pujols, Ken Griffey Jr., and a handful of others.

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Nelson Cruz is ready to get to work

Nelson Cruz (Image via USA Today)

Nelson Cruz could not be more excited about his new opportunity. He made an announcement, which came out with the official press release, explaining how ready he is to get to work.

"I'm excited to work with the Commissioner's Office and the oppurtunity to work with young players by sharing what I have learned since I signed in 1998," said Cruz.

Cruz wants to expand all the knowledge that he learned since signing his rookie contract with the New York Mets in 1998. He wants these younger players to be better off than when he first entered the league.

Shortly after announcing his retirement, the Los Angeles Dodgers hired him in an advisory role. There is no telling if his new role will impact his work with the Blue Crew or if he can work both simultaneously.