IN an unprecedented move for the Frederick Keys baseball team, they welcomed their newest player last week, introducing 18-year-old Dennis Kasumba, a catcher from Uganda. Kasumba’s journey from the rugged fields of his home country to the pristine grass of American professional baseball stadiums is a testament to his resilience and determination.
Just three days after arriving in the United States, Kasumba stepped onto an American baseball diamond on June 1, making his official debut with the Keys. Though he struck out on three pitches, he managed to make contact with the first pitch, fouling it off. This young player, who once honed his skills using old tires and oil drums on muddy streets in Uganda, now finds himself playing high-quality amateur league baseball, just one step away from the professional minor leagues.
Reflecting on his first game, Kasumba expressed his satisfaction, saying, ‘My first game was very, very good because I faced a pitcher who threw 95 [miles per hour]. And I hit it. I need to hit because I am here to hit, to show my skill, I am ready to hit. I want to show I can hit. I want to show them I can throw.’
Kasumba’s story has captivated thousands on social media, with his intense workouts and dedication drawing admiration from people around the world. One such admirer was Joshua Williams, an American attorney and baseball enthusiast, who played a pivotal role in helping Kasumba fulfill his dream.
Williams recalled how he came across a video of Kasumba hitting a baseball off a tire with a Coke bottle, and that sparked their connection. Williams reached out to Kasumba on Facebook, initiating conversations about his dreams and aspirations. It took nearly two years for Kasumba to secure a contract with an American team and overcome several visa rejections at the US Embassy in Uganda.
Williams and a group of friends intensified their efforts after Kasumba’s third visa request was denied. With the assistance of immigration attorneys, they strengthened their application, leading to a sudden breakthrough. Williams recounted, ‘He was denied on Friday. And on Tuesday we got a call from the embassy, and they said, “Be there Thursday at 2 o’clock.”’
While Kasumba is not the first Ugandan to venture into baseball, he is determined to make his mark. Last year, the Los Angeles Dodgers signed two Ugandans, Umar Male and Ben Serunkuma, to contracts, and they have already played games in the low minor leagues.
Frederick Keys Manager Rene Rivera has already seen the impact Kasumba has had on the team, saying, ‘This guy has so much energy, he brings so much to the other guys, you know, he’s hardworking. We all saw some of his videos on Instagram, the passion he puts behind him so he can be good. And I think that the players already see that, they come and work.’
Kasumba, who grew up as an orphan in Wakiso, Uganda, is grateful for the newfound attention and opportunities. He remarked, ‘There are a lot of kids, uh, people calling my name, my jersey number: Kasumba! Kasumba! Kasumba! This is my first time, to have someone asking me for a signature, photos. I was so surprised. It makes me feel very, very good. I think I am blessed.’
The coming months will present both challenges and opportunities for Kasumba as he continues his baseball journey. However, he has a strong support system in place, starting with his manager, Rivera, who aims to be a role model for the young athlete. As a former major league catcher with 13 years of experience, Rivera is well-positioned to guide Kasumba toward future success.
As Kasumba takes to the field with his bat in hand, he understands that he is not just playing for the Frederick Keys but also for his country, his online supporters, and every dreamer who has dared to dream big. His remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to all those who believe in the power of perseverance and determination.
(with VOA)