Ceddanne Rafaela Seeks to Learn from Andruw Jones in World Baseball Classic Ceddanne Rafaela, the 25-year-old Red Sox center fielder, sees playing for the Netherlands under manager Andruw Jones in the World Baseball Classic as an opportunity to grow as a player. For Rafaela, the experience mirrors the process of pursuing higher education, offering a chance to learn from one of the game’s greatest defensive stars. Jones, a 10-time Gold Glove winner and Hall of Fame inductee, has been a mentor figure for Rafaela, who expressed admiration for his career and defensive prowess. Rafaela, who made his WBC debut with the Netherlands in a loss to Venezuela, emphasized his eagerness to absorb lessons from Jones. “I want to be a complete player like he was,” Rafaela said. “There’s a lot I can learn from talking to somebody who had the kind of career that he did.” Jones, who has been a guiding presence for Curacaoan players in the majors, recalled hearing about Rafaela years ago through coaches and players. “They knew he was coming,” Jones said. “I’m proud of all of them. It’s a small island and baseball is big. They love the game.” The connection between Rafaela and Jones extends beyond their shared nationality and position. Both hail from Curacao, a Caribbean island with a strong baseball tradition. Since Hensley Meulens became the first Curacaoan to reach the majors in 1989, 17 players have followed. Jones, who has been a mentor to many, noted that Rafaela’s potential was recognized early. “Coaches back home said he was a great shortstop,” Jones said. “When I saw him on TV, I realized he’s a special kid.” Despite the natural comparisons between Rafaela and Jones, the latter insists the focus should be on Rafaela’s own development. “There’s only going to be one [Andruw Jones],” Jones said.#andruw_jones #curacao #world_baseball_classic #ceddanne_rafaela #jurickson_profar
