MINNEAPOLIS — At the age of 78, Rod Carew embarked on a new and exciting chapter in his life by applying for U.S. citizenship, employing the same exceptional dedication that established him as one of the greatest pure hitters in Major League Baseball history.
The Hall of Famer approached the 10-question citizenship test with the same intensity he would have used when preparing to face Bob Gibson. For several months, Carew meticulously studied each question, staying vigilant for every possible scenario.
On August 2, Carew officially became a U.S. citizen and will be sworn in on a future date. He shared this achievement with friends over the weekend during events celebrating the Minnesota Twins Hall of Fame at Target Field.
“I’m so proud of my husband,” expressed his wife, Rhonda Carew. “He studied those questions and their answers as if his life depended on it. There was no way he was going to miss a single question.”
“I love this country,” Rod Carew stated. “It has given me everything and more.”
News of Carew’s newly attained citizenship took many by surprise. Having moved to Washington Heights in Manhattan from Gatun, Panama at the age of 14, Carew has resided in the United States ever since, initially in Minneapolis and later in Southern California, where he raised three children.
Carew made an immediate impact on the field with the Twins, winning the 1967 American League Rookie of the Year award and earning the first of 18 consecutive All-Star Game selections. In 1969, he recorded a batting average of .332 at the age of 23, claiming the first of his seven batting titles, which places him second to Ty Cobb’s 12 in AL history. In 1977, Carew achieved a remarkable batting average of .388, leading to his first and only Most Valuable Player award.
Carew played 12 seasons with the Twins and seven with the Angels, concluding his 19-year career with an impressive .328 batting average, 3
With 3,053 hits and 353 stolen bases, Rod Carew was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991. Beyond his athletic achievements, Carew’s name has appeared in popular songs by the Beastie Boys and Adam Sandler.
Throughout his career, however, Carew was not a U.S. citizen.
“They had no idea,” Carew chuckled.
For years, friends and family urged Carew to obtain U.S. citizenship. After earning his own citizenship in 1971, Hall of Famer and long-time friend Tony Oliva encouraged Carew to follow suit.
“When he first mentioned he wasn’t an American citizen, I couldn’t believe it because he came to America as a young child,” said Oliva, now 86 and originally from Cuba. “I thought he was joking; we’ve known each other forever. Even then, I thought he was just playing around. When it came up at dinner the other night, I was shocked and thought, ‘Finally. What took you so long?’”
Carew had initially intended to secure citizenship much earlier, but life and baseball got in the way.
In the 1960s, he believed his six years in the Marine Corps Reserves might lead to citizenship opportunities. However, that did not materialize, and subsequently, his focus shifted to baseball.
He only revisited the idea recently.
Now recovering from knee replacement surgery and having previously received a heart transplant in December 2016, Carew is eager to travel internationally again. Until now, he had to renew his Panamanian passport every two years.
“He’s mentioned for the last 60 years that he wanted to do it, but he was always busy with baseball and never found time,” shared Rhonda Carew. “With the knee replacement, he’s excited to travel without pain after rehab. That motivated him to finally push it through. It’s just another item checked off his list from when he left Panama, even if it took the longest.”
Another reason Carew chose to become a dual citizen of the United States and Panama is his deep affection for a country he has called home for over 60 years.
Relocating to the U.S. enabled Carew to follow his dream of playing baseball. He aimed to leverage his sports career to motivate young Panamanians and has committed his life to charitable work.
Earlier this summer, he hosted the Rod Carew Children’s Cancer Golf Classic for the 27th year in a row, raising funds and awareness to honor his daughter, Michelle, who passed away in 1991 after battling leukemia.
Since experiencing a severe heart attack in 2015 and undergoing a heart transplant, Carew has partnered with the American Heart Association. Now, he hopes to become a spokesperson for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Carew expressed, ”The United States has given me everything and more. All the projects I’ve undertaken fill my heart. … I’ve been considering this for quite some time. I kept telling my wife, ‘I think I’m going to do it.’”
(Photo of Rod Carew from July 20: Julia Nikhinson / Associated Press)
Rod Carew: From Baseball Legend to Proud U.S. Citizen at 78
Early Life and Baseball Career
Rod Carew, born on October 1, 1945, in Gatun, Panama, is a name synonymous with baseball excellence. He began his journey in the sport at a young age, showcasing incredible talent that led him to the United States in the 1960s. Carew made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut in 1967 with the Minnesota Twins, quickly establishing himself as one of the game’s finest hitters.
Achievements and Honors
Throughout his illustrious career, Carew accumulated numerous accolades, making him a true baseball legend. Here are some of his most notable achievements:
- 7× All-Star (1969–1975)
- AL Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 1977
- 18× All-Star Game selections
- 7× batting champion in the American League
- Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991
A Journey to U.S. Citizenship
After spending decades in the U.S., Rod Carew’s journey took a significant turn when he decided to pursue American citizenship. In September 2023, at the age of 78, Carew proudly took the oath to become a U.S. citizen, a moment filled with personal significance and national pride.
Motivation for Citizenship
Carew’s motivation for becoming a U.S. citizen stems from his deep appreciation for the country that embraced him and allowed him to flourish both as an athlete and an individual. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he received and wanted to formalize his commitment to the United States.
Personal Reflections
In a heartfelt statement, Carew shared, “Becoming a U.S. citizen is a dream come true. This country has given me so much, and I am proud to call it my home.” His journey reflects the story of many immigrants who find their place and purpose in America.
Benefits of U.S. Citizenship
Achieving U.S. citizenship comes with various benefits that enhance one’s quality of life. Here are some key advantages:
- Right to Vote: Citizens can participate in the democratic process and influence government decisions.
- Access to Government Benefits: Citizens are eligible for various federal benefits and assistance programs.
- Job Opportunities: Many government jobs require U.S. citizenship, opening up new career paths.
- Passport Benefits: U.S. citizens can travel globally with a U.S. passport, simplifying international travel.
- Family Sponsorship: Citizens can sponsor relatives for immigration, reuniting families.
Practical Tips for Immigrants Seeking Citizenship
For those inspired by Carew’s journey and looking to become U.S. citizens, here are some practical tips:
- Understand the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the eligibility criteria for U.S. citizenship, including residency and language requirements.
- Gather Documentation: Collect necessary documents, such as proof of residency, tax records, and identification.
- Prepare for the Interview: Study for the civics test and prepare for the citizenship interview by practicing common interview questions.
- Seek Legal Advice: If needed, consult with an immigration attorney to navigate the process smoothly.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any changes in immigration policies that may affect your application.
Rod Carew’s Impact Beyond Baseball
Rod Carew’s influence extends beyond his remarkable baseball career. After retiring, Carew became a prominent advocate for heart health awareness. In 2016, he underwent a heart transplant, an experience that profoundly changed his life and perspective.
Health Advocacy and Public Speaking
Carew has dedicated much of his time to raising awareness about heart disease and the importance of organ donation. He frequently speaks at events, sharing his story and encouraging others to prioritize their health. His advocacy has inspired many to make healthier lifestyle choices and consider organ donation.
Heart Health Tips
Here are some essential heart health tips inspired by Carew’s advocacy:
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week.
- Monitor Blood Pressure: Regularly check your blood pressure and manage it effectively.
- Avoid Tobacco: Stay away from smoking and secondhand smoke.
- Manage Stress: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and mental well-being.
Case Study: Rod Carew’s Legacy
Rod Carew’s legacy is not only defined by his impressive statistics but also by the lives he has touched through his charitable work and advocacy. His transition from a baseball icon to a community leader showcases the impact one individual can have.
Community Engagement Initiatives
Carew has participated in various initiatives aimed at improving community health and education. Some of his notable contributions include:
| Initiative | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Health Awareness Campaign | Promotes education on heart disease prevention. | Increased awareness among diverse populations. |
| Youth Baseball Clinics | Teaches young athletes essential baseball skills. | Inspires the next generation of players. |
| Organ Donation Advocacy | Encourages organ donation registrations. | Saved numerous lives through awareness. |
First-Hand Experience: Rod Carew’s Heart Transplant Journey
In a candid interview, Carew shared his experience of undergoing a heart transplant. He described the emotional and physical challenges he faced during the process. His resilience and positive attitude served as an inspiration to many.
Key Takeaways from Carew’s Journey
– **Hope and Resilience:** Carew’s story illustrates the importance of maintaining hope even in difficult times.
– **Community Support:** He emphasized the role of family and friends in his recovery.
– **Importance of Awareness:** Through his journey, Carew highlights the need for awareness about heart health and organ donation.
Conclusion
Rod Carew’s extraordinary life story—from a baseball legend to a proud U.S. citizen—serves as a powerful reminder of the American dream. His achievements on and off the field, combined with his commitment to health advocacy, continue to inspire countless individuals. As we celebrate his journey, we recognize the lasting impact he has made on baseball, health awareness, and community engagement.
