Lucas Ramirez, son of Manny Ramirez, playing with Brazil at World Baseball Classic Qualifiers | Local News

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – The World Baseball Classic Qualifiers are in full swing in Tucson!

Thousands of fans from all over the world are in town to watch Germany, Colombia, China and Brazil compete for two spots in next year’s WBC. Even if you don’t follow those teams closely, you may recognize a few names on their rosters.

One of them is Outfielder Lucas Ramirez, son of legendary slugger and 12-time All-Star Manny Ramirez. 

“It means a lot to me and my family because we worked hard with Lucas so he can be a baseball player,” Manny said. “Seeing him in this big event, I’m so proud of him. It’s really paying off.”

“He’s my hitting coach,” Lucas said. “He taught me my swing. Even though I’m a lefty, I still have his right-handed power and some of the mechanics he taught me.”

Lucas was selected by the Angels in the 17th round of last year’s draft. He took time away from Minor League Camp in Tempe to join Team Brazil. His mom, Juliana, is from São Paulo. 

“It means the most to me,” Lucas said. “I’ve always wanted to play for Brazil. I’m proud to be here and I’m giving glory to God.”

Lucas is a left-handed hitter, but he isn’t actually left handed. 

“I always wanted to be a lefty, but I had nobody to teach me,” Manny said. “I never had a brother. I always wanted to have a brother. So I prayed to God to have a son. God gave me two sons. As soon as he was born, I said ‘he’s going to be a lefty.’ So I started working with him lefty.”

Manny did well as a righty, hitting 555 home runs in his 19-year MLB career. Lucas is on his way to creating his own legacy, while still honoring his dad’s by wearing his number 24. 

Lucas and Brazil fell to Colombia 5-0 Sunday night. It plays Germany, who run-ruled China 12-2, Monday at 11 a.m.