Imagine dreaming that one day you’ll become a professional baseball player. What would it look like for you? For David Peralta, left fielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks, his dream did come true.

Peralta was born in Venezuela and came to the U.S. to become a pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals at age 18. The Cardinals released him in 2009 after injuries and shoulder surgery. Peralta began to play for the Diamondbacks in 2013, with the minor league team. Peralta says he was called up to the major league club in 2014.

Peralta says he was 3 years old when he first played baseball in Venezuela. His mother told him he used to sleep with his

glove on. 

 “Baseball is my life,” says Peralta. He says his mom, dad and family were his support for baseball. 

 Peralta has a batting average of 300. His nickname is “Freight Train.” He bats left and throws left. He practices every day as part of his daily routine. 

 Peralta has advice for kids wanting a career in baseball. “Education, discipline, hard work and parent support can make your dreams come true,” he says.