From “El Diablado” to Águilas Ace: Jean henríquez’s Decade-Long Pursuit of a Dominican Dream
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – At 31 years old, an age when many baseball players are facing career crossroads, Jean Henríquez is realizing a lifelong ambition. Selected 13th overall in the 2025 Lidom Rookie Draft by the Águilas Cibaeñas, the right-handed pitcher is poised to become a key contributor in the Dominican Professional Baseball League (Lidom) after years of relentless dedication and overcoming obstacles. His story is a testament to perseverance, proving that a professional baseball career isn’t solely defined by youthful promise, but by unwavering belief and hard work.
henríquez’s journey is particularly remarkable given the late bloom of his pitching career. Initially known as a powerful hitter – earning the nickname “El Diablado” (The deviled One) for his prowess at the plate – he transitioned to the mound and refined a technique he describes as utilizing “my knee and hip… and I push it forward.” That technique has yielded extraordinary results, wiht a fastball clocked between 97 and 99 miles per hour and a devastating splitter. Now, Henríquez isn’t just a name familiar to local baseball circles in towns like Plata, SFM, Bonao, Baní, Samaná, and isabela; he’s a rising star with a chance to inspire a new generation of Dominican players.
Born and raised in the Dominican Republic, Henríquez’s path wasn’t linear. He spent years honing his craft, waiting for an opportunity. That opportunity arrived during a dominant performance with the Santiago Royals in Moca, where he pitched eight scoreless innings, striking out 11 batters against the Farmers. this performance caught the attention of the Águilas Cibaeñas management, convincing them to invest in his unique story and undeniable talent.
“I cried with emotion… I told my brother that this year I had to shoot, even if it was an entry in the Lidom,” Henríquez confessed, reflecting on the moment he received the draft call. The emotional weight of the moment underscores the years of sacrifice and dedication that lead to this breakthrough.
Commentator Ricardo Rodríguez highlighted the significance of Henríquez’s success, stating, “This has to be a victory that inspires a lot of guys.If they keep their arm healthy, they can fulfill their dream.” Vian Araujo, also on the Opening the Ball podcast, added, “Everyone who has passed through here knows him. Mateo, Félix José… everyone knows who he is.”
Henríquez embodies a relentless work ethic and unwavering commitment.As he succinctly puts it, “When the manager needs me, I’m there.” He’s not simply a prospect; he’s an everyday arm, a lifelong dreamer, and a living embodiment of the belief that destiny can be earned, not simply awaited. His nickname now reflects a different kind of power: “arm of rubber,heart of iron,soul of fire.”
