Adonis and Adolis Garcia reunited before the teams played in the Grapefruit League on Tuesday.
Outfielder Adolis Garcia signed a minor-league contract with the Cardinals on Friday and accompanied the big-league club for its game against the Braves. His older brother, Adonis, plays third base for the Braves.
The Garcias chatted on the field during batting practice. Adonis Garcia said he last saw his brother during the Caribbean Series in winter 2016. His brother left Cuba in August looking for an opportunity to play in the majors.
Adonis Garcia, 31, left Cuba in 2010 and signed with the Braves in 2015 after the Yankees released him. MLB.com reported Adolis, 24, signed a one-year contract that includes a $2.5 million bonus.
“I think he has really good tools,” Adonis Garcia said through an interpreter. “He has got a really good arm, plays defense really well. I think if he applies himself and puts in the work he will be able to show the kind of quality player he can be.”
Adonis Garcia was in the starting lineup for the exhibition game on Tuesday. His brother didn’t play because he has yet to obtain a work visa.
Adonis Garcia projects to be the regular third baseman for the second straight season. He played 134 games in 2016 and hit .273 with a .311 on-base percentage and .406 slugging percentage while improving his defense significantly.
