Bulls pitcher's perseverance shown through drive to reach big leagues

The Latino heritage of Durham Bulls baseball players is on full display when they walk to home plate. The music they pick as their walk-up song is a celebration of their culture.

One of those players is Durham Bulls relief pitcher Cristofer Ogando. With the help of an interpreter, he shared his journey to the big leagues that began in his native Dominican Republic. His family still lives there. They are understandably very proud of his accomplishments.

Since he was 5 years old, his dad would go with him to to the baseball field to practice. He started growing and showing some abilities, then started playing more baseball.

His story wasn't one of overnight success.

Before joining the Bulls, Ogando played for the Miami Marlins organization in 2013, but the team let him go that same year. Ogando and his high-velocity pitches were out of baseball for five years, but he kept working at his craft.

Sometimes he felt it was hopeless, but his faith kept him working hard and trying to reach his dream.

Ogando knows his journey can inspire a new generation of baseball players, showcasing their heritage on and off the field.

He'll turn 29 in October.

"I am an example that age does not matter," said Ogando. "If you keep working hard, the opportunity can come at any time."

Ogando's baseball dream is now realized as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

The Bulls next homestand, and your opportunity to see Ogando pitch, starts Monday.