SEATTLE (AP) — Mariners teammates stood and applauded and "God Bless America" played on speakers when Felix Hernandez entered Seattle's clubhouse after becoming a U.S. citizen.
A native of Venezuela, the 32-year-old pitcher passed his citizenship interview Monday and was among 74 people from 36 countries who became naturalized U.S. citizens during a ceremony in downtown Seattle.
"This country has given me everything," Hernandez said. "It's a dream come true. It means a lot. We've been here a long time. I wanted to do it."
Strife in Venezuela is among the reasons Hernandez desired U.S. citizenship.