In the world of professional sports, numbers often hold deeper significance beyond mere statistics. For Jake Burger, the newly signed first baseman for the Texas Rangers, wearing number 21 is a powerful symbol honored by personal and familial ties. This number resonates profoundly with Burger and his family due to the unique circumstances surrounding the birth of his daughter, Penelope, who was born with Down syndrome, clinically referred to as trisomy 21.
Down syndrome arises from the presence of an extra chromosome, often resulting in a range of cognitive, developmental, and physical challenges for those affected. However, for Burger, this condition has become a catalyst for awareness and advocacy. In his own words, “This is the first time I can pick a number that’s not just close to my heart, but close to a lot of people’s hearts.” Through this choice, Burger seeks to raise understanding and disseminate information regarding Down syndrome, aiming to connect with others who share similar experiences.
As he prepares to don his new jersey, Burger expresses immense pride in representing his daughter and the larger community affected by Down syndrome. He has established a foundation geared towards supporting families confronting the challenges associated with this condition, which promises to be an invaluable resource for countless individuals. With a heartfelt approach, he describes his family’s experience in fostering awareness, stating, “We’re really, really excited to push that forward and help as many families as we can.”
The Journey of Parenthood
Burger’s emotional depth becomes even clearer when reflecting on his family’s journey since Penelope’s birth on October 25. In a touching moment shared before the Rangers’ annual awards dinner, he stood alongside his wife, Ashlyn, and their two-year-old son, Brooks, as they celebrated the arrival of their daughter. The support provided by his family and their close-knit relationship has been paramount during this transformative time.
While the joy of parenthood surrounds him, Burger also acknowledges the challenges that come with it. Shortly after her birth, he shared a poignant Instagram post indicating that while he is the only active MLB player with a child affected by Down syndrome, he and Ashlyn consistently remind themselves of the unique role they have been given. They view their situation through a lens of hope and purpose, believing that “God was giving them some really special work to do.”
Growth and resilience are hallmarks of Burger’s narrative. He shares openly about Penelope’s health challenges, mirroring the resilience he aims to embody. She is reportedly facing heart complications that will necessitate surgery during spring training. Burger has expressed his commitment to be by her side during this time, reinforcing familial bonds in the face of adversity. “She’s the strongest little person I know,” he proclaimed, reflecting both a father’s pride and an unwavering belief in his daughter’s strength.
In addition to facing personal challenges, Burger hopes to connect with his new teammate, Joc Pederson, whose brother also has Down syndrome. The intersection of their lives through professional sports offers a unique opportunity for camaraderie and shared understanding that can only enhance the purpose-driven journey they both navigate.
Looking Towards the Future
As Burger prepares for the upcoming season with the Texas Rangers, he carries with him not just a number, but a commitment to advocacy and support. He is determined to amplify the voices of families affected by Down syndrome while staying devoted to the health and happiness of his daughter. Through his advocacy, he hopes to inspire others to join in embracing the challenges and joys that come with raising a child with special needs.
Ultimately, Jake Burger’s decision to wear number 21 is more than a nod to his daughter’s condition; it serves as a beacon of hope and solidarity for many families navigating their own paths. By leveraging his prominent platform, Burger is setting a precedent for compassion and awareness in sports, proving that the heart of a player beats louder when fueled by love and resilience.