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Rockies Veteran Pitcher Inducted into Mexican Baseball Hall of Fame
11 Nov
Summary
- Longtime Rockies pitcher Jorge De La Rosa inducted into Mexican Hall of Fame
- Surprised to be elected on first ballot, deeply touched by hometown reaction
- Ranks second in Rockies history in strikeouts, fourth in innings pitched
In a significant honor for a Colorado Rockies pitcher, veteran left-hander Jorge De La Rosa was inducted into the Mexican Professional Baseball Hall of Fame on Thursday. De La Rosa, who spent nine seasons with the Rockies from 2008 to 2016, was surprised to be elected on the first ballot, calling it "an honor" to be recognized among the best players from Mexico.
During the ceremony in Monterrey, Mexico, De La Rosa was touched by the warm reception from his hometown fans. "When I went there to the ceremony, I was surprised -- people started coming up to me to sign things, and a lot of people knew my career numbers," he said. Over his time with the Rockies, De La Rosa compiled an 86-61 record with a 4.35 ERA, ranking second in franchise history in strikeouts (985) and fourth in innings pitched (1,141 1/3) and pitching wins above replacement (15.5).
De La Rosa's induction into the Mexican Hall of Fame is a testament to his impressive career, which included stints with several MLB teams before finding success in Colorado. "I pitched for a lot of teams, but when they asked me, 'What jersey do you want to wear going in?' I said Rockies, right away," he noted. "That's the team I love, and I'm always thanking them for the opportunities they gave me."
