In a poignant gesture that merges personal significance with a broader mission, Jake Burger has chosen to wear the number 21 as a member of the Texas Rangers. This decision transcends mere preference; it embodies a commitment to honor his daughter, Penelope, who was born with Down syndrome. Known clinically as trisomy 21, this condition arises from the presence of an extra chromosome, often leading to a range of cognitive and physical challenges. For Burger, number 21 signifies not just a tribute to his daughter, but also serves as an emblem of awareness and support for families affected by Down syndrome.
“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 stated, highlighting the collective meaning behind the jersey. For the athlete, this jersey is imbued with hopes, challenges, and advocacy, transforming a simple number into a platform for raising awareness. He aims not only to represent his daughter but also to amplify the voices of other families navigating similar paths.
Jake Burger’s public appearance at the Rangers’ annual awards dinner encapsulated the importance of family support in overcoming life’s hurdles. With his infant daughter Penelope cradled in her mother Ashlyn’s arms, and his 2-year-old son Brooks present, the atmosphere was filled with both joy and a sense of responsibility. This moment represented the first official engagement with his new team since joining the Rangers via a trade with Miami in December.
His wife, Ashlyn, played an instrumental role in choosing the jersey number, a choice that signifies their intimate journey as a family. The couple’s bond has been strengthened by their daughter’s diagnosis, enabling them to advocate for awareness and support for those with Down syndrome. They are in the process of establishing a foundation aimed at aiding families impacted by similar challenges, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact on others’ lives.
While celebrating the joys of parenthood, Burger is also confronted with the reality of his daughter’s health challenges. Penelope, who is illuminating their lives with her presence, has a heart condition that will necessitate surgical intervention in the near future. This upcoming surgery weighs heavily on the family, but Burger’s deeply rooted belief in his daughter’s strength provides him solace.
“She’s the strongest little person I know,” he mentioned, expressing unwavering faith in her ability to overcome obstacles. As he prepares for the surgery, he is ready to transition from the baseball diamond to the hospital, signaling a commitment that extends beyond the sporting arena. His outlook encapsulates both a father’s love and a profound sense of duty to be there for his family during trying times.
The new chapter in Burger’s professional career is marked by not only his own experiences but also those of his teammates. The Texas Rangers have recently added Joc Pederson, another player who has personal connections to the Down syndrome community through his older brother Champ. The intersection of their pathways seems almost serendipitous to Burger.
“Seemed like fate a little bit with him signing here,” Burger said, expressing excitement for further developing their bond. Both players share a unique perspective that transcends baseball, encouraging a deeper connection that resonates with their shared advocacy. This sense of camaraderie in recognizing and addressing the challenges that families with special needs face adds another layer of meaning to their involvement in the sport.
Jake Burger’s statement, “We call it the lucky few,” encapsulates the pride he and his wife carry as they become advocates for their daughter and others like her. His journey is not just about personal triumphs; it is also a call to action for society to understand and support individuals with Down syndrome. Through his choice of jersey number, Burger hopes to inspire conversations and raise awareness, while his family’s experiences serve as a beacon of hope for others.
Ultimately, as Burger dons his Rangers jersey emblazoned with 21, it signals more than just a connection to family—it represents a commitment to foster understanding and support for a community that deserves recognition and celebration. As he embarks on this journey with his family and teammates, Jake Burger is not just hitting home runs on the field; he is advocating for a cause that hits home in a much deeper way.