Mauricio Dubón Plays New Purpose Through Fatherhood
When he found out he would be a father, everything changed for Houston Astros utility man Mauricio Dubón. Since welcoming his son Luciano on November 30, the 30-year-old athlete has experienced a shift both on and off the field. Baseball is still a priority, but it’s no longer his sole focus. As Mauricio Dubón plays each game, he carries a new perspective—one shaped by fatherhood. As he puts it, “You’re not playing for yourself anymore.”
This new chapter in his life has added depth to his career. The pressure of a rough night at the plate fades quickly when he walks through the door and sees Luciano’s smiling face. “You’re playing for somebody else,” he says—a simple phrase with incredible emotional weight.
First Father’s Day on the Diamond
This past Father’s Day, Dubón had more than just a game to celebrate. Marking his first Father’s Day as a dad, he honored his family with custom gear during Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Twins at Daikin Park. His personalized belt featured the names of his wife, Nancy, baby Luciano, and their dogs, Marcelo and Cash. Inside the belt? Luciano’s actual birth certificate footprints and the loving Spanish message: “El mejor papi! Te amamos.” (“The best daddy. We love you.”)
But Dubón didn’t stop there. His custom Air Jordan cleats also told a heartfelt story—the right to display Luciano’s name and a tribute to their recently passed dog. The left toe highlighted Marcelo and Cash. As a touch of personal flair, Dubón added illustrations of a cigar and a glass of Scotch—two of his favorite off-the-field indulgences.
A Shift in Mindset: Playing With Heart
Beyond the gear and celebrations, fatherhood has profoundly transformed how Dubón approaches the game. “You’re not just playing for yourself anymore,” he repeats a sentiment that reflects a mental and emotional evolution. Each pitch hit or missed opportunity now carries more meaning. It’s not just about stats or wins—it’s about setting an example, creating a legacy, and doing his best for someone who looks up to him.
This mental clarity has helped Dubón focus during the long and grueling MLB season. His perspective stays steady whether he’s struggling at the plate or helping lift the Astros to a win. The highs aren’t too high. The lows aren’t too low. What matters is coming home to a son who sees him as a hero—regardless of the box score.
Dubón’s Calm in the Chaos
Fatherhood, according to Dubón, has brought him peace. It’s calmed his nerves and helped him approach each game with a level head. “It’s different, man,” he admits with a smile. “I’m just trying to be good for him.”
While the 2024 season has presented its share of challenges for the Astros, including a tough battle in the AL West, players like Dubón are finding strength in personal growth. The team’s grind continues, but with renewed motivation, Dubón shows that family and baseball don’t have to be separate priorities—they can fuel each other.
Final Thoughts: More Than a Game
Mauricio Dubón’s story reminds us that professional athletes are people first—fathers, husbands, and individuals navigating life like anyone else. His journey into fatherhood has not only redefined his identity but also deepened his drive to succeed. Every hit, every run, and every inning now carries new meaning.
As Mauricio Dubón plays through the Astros’ season, his most significant victory might not come from the scoreboard—but from the pride in his son’s eyes when he watches his dad chase greatness.