It is likely that Mexicans' familiarity with the British game of cricket also led to the emergence of baseball in Mexico. Significantly, there was also close contact between Mexican and American railroad workers, who probably shared the game with one another. Moreover, according to one legend, Abner Doubleday, a lieutenant in the American Army, is said to have promoted the game in south of the border while he served there during the war with Mexico. Throughout Latin America today, baseball continues to occupy a special place in the hearts and minds of many people. In areas where families and entire communities are severely impoverished, people are too poor to afford advanced education.
Baseball is seen by many as the only viable path to a better life.
Players in pursuit of their major league dreams are hoping not only to escape their own poverty, but also to bring distinction to their homeland, and give hope to those with an otherwise bleak future.