With nobody out in the fifth inning, the 28-year-old first-year wonder launched his 31st home run of the season into right-center against Alex Cobb of the Los Angeles Angels at Globe Life Field.
It was a two-run shot that covered more than 400 feet. Fitting!
Adolis Garcia also broke the Texas Rangers’ all-time rookie home run and RBI records, both of which had been held by Pete Incaviglia since 1986, in one foul (but actually fair) swoop.
What a season for El Bombi, who came out of nowhere to become a true Rangers star in 2021. He was named Rookie of the Month in the American League after a scorching hot May.
While he has cooled down since then, he was named to the AL All-Star team this year and now owns two key Rangers records.
Garcia’s achievement is all the more enjoyable to see because hardly one saw it coming.
To be sure, the race for AL Rookie of the Year in 2021 is crowded, with several excellent candidates such as Rays’ Randy Arozarena and Orioles’ Ryan Mountcastle, among others.
But have either of those players had the same level of success as Garcia this season? With 3.8 bWAR, Garcia leads both of those players (and all AL rookies) this season.
That’s a significant influence for a single player on a club that may not even reach 60 victories at the end of the season.
What Year Did Adolis Garcia Get Drafted?
Adolis Garcia was drafted but instead, he signed with the St. Louis Cardinals in February 2017, receiving a non-roster invitation to spring training.