Jake Burger is the proud father of a newborn daughter whom he will honor on the field during every game.
The new Rangers first baseman announced Friday that he will wear No. 21 to pay tribute to Penelope, who was born with Down Syndrome, and to raise awareness for the genetic condition.
Penelope was born Oct. 25 with the disorder that is also called Trisomy 21, a reference to a repetition of the 21st chromosome.
“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,” Burger told reporters before a Rangers banquet. “For me, it’s trying to spread awareness and try to get the word out about Down syndrome and how people can get support.
“I’m just really proud of this number and really excited to wear this and represent my daughter and also so many people out there.”
Penelope is doing well but will need an open-heart surgery in the coming months, the 28-year-old Burger said. He will leave the club for a few days during spring training to be with his daughter and family for the surgery.
“She’s the strongest little person I know, and I know she’s going to get through that in a breeze,” Burger told reporters.
Burger, whom the Rangers landed from the Marlins in a December trade, said he and his wife, Ashlyn, will begin a foundation for research and support for Down Syndrome. The couple also have a 2-year-old son Brooks.
A four-year major leaguer, Burger had worn No. 30 with the White Sox and No. 36 with the Marlins.
He hit .250 last season with 29 home runs, 76 RBIs and a .760 OPS.
