HARRISBURG, Pa. — It's been almost a year since Central Penn College's baseball team lost their teammate and brother Angel Mercado-Ocasio.
What was lost in his physical presence was made up with a dedication before the team's opening-day games. His dedication included a moment of silence, the placing of his glove at second base, and his jersey being hung up in the dugout.
"Our guys are excited that we could play baseball for him," said head coach Robert Stern. "He's been missed a lot but he would want us to continue playing."
He was described as a loveable teammate by all. That includes one of his closest friends and teammates Roniel Morel today was more than just a game, but a celebration of what Mercado-Ocasio loved.
"His passing hurt me pretty bad so to be able to honor him here means a lot to me," said Morel. "That was my friend since we were little kids. I played with him growing up."
His spirit will not only be felt today but throughout the entire season. The team plans to keep his jersey in the dugout all year long.
"We used to come here and watch the Senator play growing up," said Morel "Just to be able to share this field he's not here right now but he's up there with us."