MLB The Show 23 has announced another new legend, Carlos Peña, who joins Ian Kinsler, Mike Lowell, and Greg Vaughn.
Peña is a left-handed first baseman from the Dominican Republic who played for a whopping eight teams during his 14-year career. He has a career WAR of 25.5 and a career slash line of .232/.346/.462. He was an All-Star in 2009, a Gold Glove winner in 2008, and a Silver Slugger recipient in 2007.
His best season was probably with Tampa Bay in 2007, in which he had a career-high OPS of 1.037 and socked 46 dingers. In 2009, he led the American League with 39 home runs. Peña also holds the distinction of hitting the longest home run (461 feet) in Comerica Park history.
The first baseman spent a handful of seasons as a young player trying to find a consistent spot on a major league roster. It wasn’t until he was signed to a minor league deal by Tampa Bay in 2007 that he found his opportunity. After a fortuitous injury sidelined infielder Greg Norton, Peña was bumped up to the majors and had the best season of his career.
Peña’s tenure with the Oakland Athletics during the Billy Beane “Moneyball” era resulted in his inclusion in the 2011 film starring Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill. Peña is portrayed by actor Adrian Bellani. The fictionalized version of Peña is featured in a memorable scene in which Jonah Hill’s character informs him he’s been traded.
Peña himself is no stranger to the media world. He’s worked as a studio analyst for the MLB Network and as a color commentator for the New England Sports Network (NESN). He’s also appeared on an episode of Impractical Jokers and sometimes contributes to the Chicago Cubs’ Marquee Sports Network.
More legends are expected to be announced for MLB The Show 23 ahead of the game’s release on March 28.
