Ozzy Virgil Sr., the first Dominican baseball player to reach the major leagues, died at 92, the MLB announced Sunday.
Born in Monte Cristi, Dominican Republic, Virgil’s family immigrated to the Bronx when he was a young teen, according to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson released a statement honoring the Bronx legend calling him a “true pioneer”.
“His courage to step onto that field inspired generations of athletes—especially here in the Bronx, where baseball is more than just a sport; it’s a part of our cultural fabric,” said Gibson in the statement.
Virgil went on to serve in the Marines and play on the Marine Corps baseball team. When he returned to New York, he was signed by the New York Giants, becoming the first Dominican-born athlete to play for the big leagues when he started as the Giant’s third baseman in 1956, according to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.
Virgil is one of the 2024 inductees on the Bronx walk of fame. Gibson said Virgil’s inspiration went beyond baseball.
“He was an inspiration not only to Dominican Americans but to everyone who believes in the pursuit of a dream against all odds,” Gibson said in the statement. “His story embodies the values that define our borough: resilience, strength, and the relentless pursuit of progress.”
After nine successful seasons in the Major League, Virgil went on to coach Major League baseball for more than two decades, according to the MLB announcement.
