DETROIT — Trei Cruz made his major league debut Friday night for the Detroit Tigers, marking the continuation of a three-generation family legacy in professional baseball. Cruz started in right field and batted ninth during the Tigers’ 4-3 win over the Chicago White Sox.

Cruz's debut was witnessed by his grandfather, Jose Cruz Sr., and father, José Cruz Jr., making them the fifth family to have three generations reach the majors. This group joins previous multi-generation MLB families such as the Bells, the Boones, the Colemans, and the Hairstons.

Jose Cruz Sr. had a notable 19-year career playing for the St. Louis Cardinals, Houston Astros, and New York Yankees, accumulating over 2,200 hits and 165 home runs. He expressed pride in seeing his grandson reach the majors, calling it a “dream come true” during the Tigers’ broadcast.

José Cruz Jr. made his major league debut with the Seattle Mariners in 1997 before moving to the Toronto Blue Jays the same season. He later played for several teams over a 12-year career, including San Francisco, Tampa Bay, Arizona, Boston, Los Angeles, San Diego, and the Houston Astros.

Trei Cruz, who turns 28 next month, made his debut later than his father and grandfather. His opportunity came after Tigers' regular Wenceel Perez suffered facial fractures in a training accident earlier this week. Although Cruz did not record a hit and struck out in all three plate appearances, he played until the eighth inning when he was replaced defensively.

Tigers manager A.J. Hinch acknowledged the challenges Cruz faced along his path to the majors, noting the rarity of such a family accomplishment and praising the rookie’s perseverance. “Not everyone’s journey to the big leagues is a smooth ride. I love that he’s been tough enough to handle it,” Hinch said.

The Cruz family’s milestone adds a significant chapter to baseball history, underscoring the sport’s multigenerational ties and the resilience required to reach the highest level.