How Taylor Swift Helped Tigers' Prospect Roberto Campos Learn English

Roberto Campos, the Detroit Tigers’ No. 23 prospect, is determined to hit for more power this season. Reflecting on his offseason work, he stated, “I’ve just been working on hitting the ball hard. I know when I hit line drives, the ball is going to fly.” These familiar words took on new significance during Wednesday’s rain delay, as Campos conducted nearly his entire 12-minute interview in English. The Tigers' director of Spanish communications and broadcasting, Carlos Guillen, was present but only needed a couple of times for assistance. This self-assuredness is a testament to the maturity Campos has developed over the past few years.

Campos’ journey has been anything but ordinary. After defecting from Cuba at age 13 during an international tournament, he trained in the Dominican Republic for three years without competitive baseball before signing with the Tigers in 2019. His transition to English-speaking media initially required a translator, but his commitment to learning the language has paid off. Notably, Campos credits listening to Taylor Swift’s music for helping him improve his English. “It’s a good lesson for all of us on patience,” manager A.J. Hinch commented on Campos’ progress. “The acclimation process is not just about learning about baseball. He’s had to learn about living in a different country, a different language, and interacting with a lot of different people.” As the new season approaches, Campos is excited to showcase his growth both on and off the field.
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Campos’ story is a compelling example of the challenges and triumphs faced by international prospects adapting to life in the United States. His dedication to mastering English, combined with his drive to succeed in baseball, highlights the resilience and determination required to thrive in a new culture. As Campos prepares for the upcoming season, fans and teammates alike are eager to see the impact of his hard work and perseverance. With the support of his coaches and a little help from Taylor Swift’s music, Campos is ready to make his mark on the field and continue his journey towards becoming a major league star.