Story perspectives

Beltrán's Journey: Inspired by Williams' Switch-Hitting Legacy

2/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Carlos Beltrán describes his baseball journey as a blessing, influenced by Bernie Williams and Kevin Long.
Beltrán was drafted in 1995 and switched from right-handed to switch-hitting at age 19 to boost speed, inspired by Williams.
Bernie Williams, from Puerto Rico, faced a similar early-career choice and learned to switch-hit to avoid leaving baseball for medical school.
Williams' success as a switch-hitter significantly impacted Yankees history, contributing to a dynasty.

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Story summary

Carlos Beltrán describes his baseball journey as a blessing, influenced by Bernie Williams and Kevin Long.
Beltrán was drafted in 1995 and switched from right-handed to switch-hitting at age 19 to boost speed, inspired by Williams.
Bernie Williams, from Puerto Rico, faced a similar early-career choice and learned to switch-hit to avoid leaving baseball for medical school.
Williams' success as a switch-hitter significantly impacted Yankees history, contributing to a dynasty.