After an impressive 11-year career in professional baseball, Jamie Westbrook has finally received the opportunity he’s been longing for. Drafted by his hometown team, the Diamondbacks, in 2013, Westbrook has played for various teams and even ventured into independent ball in Mexico and Texas during the pandemic. He showcased his skills as an outfielder for the United States at the Tokyo Olympics. Throughout his journey, he has navigated through the minor league affiliates of the Diamondbacks, Brewers, Tigers, Yankees, and most recently, the Red Sox, always working towards his dream.
On a fateful Saturday, the 28-year-old received the call he had been eagerly awaiting his entire life. Without hesitation, Westbrook, accompanied by his wife Denise and their seven-month-old son Emmett, boarded a flight from Charlotte, N.C. to Boston, ready to embrace the big leagues.
Reflecting on the whirlwind experience, Westbrook expressed his excitement in the clubhouse after a tough 8-4, 10-inning loss to the Tigers on Sunday. “It was absolutely crazy,” he remarked.
Westbrook’s major league debut came in the bottom of the ninth inning during a tied game at 4-4. He stepped up to the plate, replacing Wilyer Abreu, with two runners on base and two outs. After taking a called strike, Westbrook displayed his patience and discipline by drawing four consecutive balls, loading the bases and showcasing his ability to make an impact in high-pressure situations.
“I was fully aware that we had a chance to win the game at that moment, so my mindset was to have a solid at-bat,” he explained. “It was an incredible experience. The crowd was roaring when I reached a 3-1 count, which made me refocus, but it was amazing.”
Following Connor Wong’s fly out, Westbrook remained in the game and took over right field in the 10th inning. This decision was something that manager Alex Cora had envisioned beforehand.
“That was an impressive at-bat, and Westbrook is capable of that,” Cora praised. “He always manages to make solid contact, has great plate appearances, hits the ball well, and he’s versatile.”
Having spent 1,159 games in the minor leagues, Westbrook’s career path hasn’t been the easiest. However, the Holyoke native, who moved to Arizona as a preteen, wouldn’t have it any other way.
“It’s even more satisfying now,” Westbrook expressed. “It’s been a long time coming, but today is a beautiful day.”
In December, Westbrook joined the Red Sox as a free agent. In his 49 games with Triple A Worcester, he had an impressive .267/.364/.436 (.800 OPS) line. Throughout the season, Westbrook has showcased his versatility by playing first, second, third, and right field. This adaptability is especially valuable for the Red Sox, who have been dealing with multiple injuries, including hamstring strains for Romy Gonzalez and Vaughn Grissom.
Before the game, Westbrook expressed his excitement about joining the team and his focus on contributing to their success. He stated, “I’m here to help the team win. Whatever they need me to do, I’ll be more than happy to do it to the best of my ability and enjoy it.”
Alongside Westbrook, corner infielder Bobby Dalbec was also recalled. The two have been close friends for years and even co-manage an offseason fantasy football league. Their journey to Boston together adds another layer of camaraderie to the team.
After receiving a call from Worcester manager Chad Tracy, Dalbec received a text from Tracy saying, “Westie’s going with you.” Dalbec couldn’t believe it and felt a chill run down his spine. Looking over at Westbrook in the clubhouse, Dalbec praised his teammate’s readiness for the big leagues. Despite playing for 11 years, Westbrook always gives his all and never shows any signs of letting up.
Sox reliever Greg Weissert, who was on the Yankees’ Scranton/Wilkes-Barre team with Westbrook in 2023, greeted him with a hug when they saw each other on Sunday morning. Weissert acknowledged Westbrook’s years of hard work and expressed his joy for his teammate’s success. He also mentioned his excitement for Westbrook’s family, who will have the opportunity to attend the game.
Westbrook has more than ten years of motivation driving him to secure a starting spot, but he is determined to approach his first experience at the highest level of the game with simplicity.
“I don’t need to do anything different from what has brought me here,” Westbrook stated. “I just keep reminding myself of that. I’m grateful that I never gave up.
“No matter how tough things got or where I found myself, today is the day I’ve always envisioned.”