It is rare for an active professional player to put their career on hold to join the military, whether they are in the Majors or in the minors. Yet, that is exactly what St. Louis Cardinals catcher Brayan Pena hoped do, as he attempted to join the United States Army Reserve during the upcoming offseason.
Ever so often, there will be a story where a player will put their professional sports career on hold to join the military. Typically, it is a minor league player who has gotten tired of toiling away in farm system, joining the military as a way to best serve their country. Yesterday, St. Louis Cardinals catcher Brayan Pena shattered that perception, as he announced his intention on Twitter that he planned on joining the United States Army Reserve during this offseason.
Im very proud to announce with the support of my wife & family that i will be joining the ARMY RESERVE this off season " God Bless America "
— BRAYAN PENA (@cuban2727) July 5, 2016
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It was certainly an announcement that many would question. After all, how many people would be willing to risk great personal injury or to put themselves through boot camp when they have a Major League contract? The fact that Pena was willing to do just that was quite impressive, perhaps saying thanks to the United States, where he settled after defecting from Cuba as a 16 year old.
Unfortunately, his goal of joining the Army Reserves will be on hold, as his contract with the Cardinals prohibits such an action. However, Pena will be serving as an ambassador for the troops, increasing his presence as a part of the MLB’s international relations effort. Pena was even a part of the contingent that travelled to Cuba, allowing him to go home for the first time in 16 years when he travelled to the country.
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St. Louis Cardinals catcher Brayan Pena was willing to dedicate his offseason to serving in the United States Army Reserve. Even though he was not able to follow through with that plan, he is still going to have a special place with the troops.