At 6’7″, Oneil Cruz doesn’t just break the mold—he smashes it. As one of the tallest shortstops in MLB history, Cruz has become a walking highlight reel for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Whether it’s a 122 mph laser off the bat, a rocket throw across the infield, or his unshakable confidence, Cruz is redefining what it means to be a shortstop.
But beyond the stats and jaw-dropping plays, Oneil Cruz’s words also reflect a player with hunger, belief, and swagger. In this post, we dive into some of the best quotes from Oneil Cruz—quotes that capture the spirit of a rising star with sky-high potential.
1. “I know what I’m capable of.”
This quote has become almost a mantra for Cruz. It’s simple, but powerful—coming from a player who’s constantly doubted for being “too tall” to play shortstop, too raw, or too flashy. Cruz reminds us that he knows his own ceiling, and it’s way up there.
2. “Every time I step up, I want to do something people remember.”
Cruz is not just playing for numbers—he’s playing for moments. Whether it’s launching a 450-foot homer or turning a double play with a cannon arm, Cruz wants to leave fans in awe. And more often than not, he does.
3. “I want to be one of the best to ever do it.”
There’s no fear in his ambition. Cruz doesn’t settle for being “good for his size” or “a fun story.” He’s gunning for greatness. This quote shows his drive—not just to belong in the big leagues, but to dominate them.
4. “People say I’m different. That’s good. I want to be different.”
From his towering frame to his electric style of play, Cruz embraces his uniqueness. In a sport built on tradition, he represents a new wave: bold, athletic, and unapologetically individual. He’s proof that baseball’s future doesn’t have to look like its past.
5. “I want to make the Dominican Republic proud.”
Born in Nizao, Dominican Republic, Cruz never forgets where he came from. His pride in representing his country shines through in his play and his character. Like so many Dominican stars before him, he carries that legacy with heart and humility.
6. “It’s not about showing off. It’s about showing up.”
This quote highlights his seriousness. While his tools often look like a video game, Cruz puts in the work behind the scenes. From hitting drills to footwork to mental preparation, he knows talent alone isn’t enough to succeed in the big leagues.
7. “I still have a lot to prove—and I love that.”
Cruz thrives off the doubters, the challenges, the pressure. He knows he’s still writing his story, and rather than shy away, he leans in. This is the mindset that separates good players from potential legends.
More Oneil Cruz Quotes
- “I want to go out there and try to project myself in front of people who maybe have never seen me play before. I want to leave a good impression when they go home. That’s the way I want to be every night.” (from an interview with MLB.com earlier this month, June 2025)
- “I like to hit balls far. I think I’m going to enjoy it a lot.” (on his decision to participate in the Home Run Derby, July 2025)
- “All good. 100% now. Everything’s like it’s supposed to be.” (on his recovery from a fractured left fibula, January 2024)
- “He went straight to the point. But at the same time, he gave me the courage to continue the game and finish the game the way I did. I played hard.” (regarding a conversation with manager Don Kelly about a perceived mistake in the outfield, June 2025)
- “In my hometown, ever since I was a child, everyone used to assume my name came from Shaquille O’Neal. I’d have to correct them and said, ‘No, it’s another guy, my dad’s favorite…'” (explaining the origin of his first name)
- “We’re still evaluating. Hopefully more precautionary there. He tried to rob that home run and felt a little something in his hip flexor area. So we’ll see how he’s doing. Yeah, after the single, it didn’t look like he was doing too well.” (This quote is from manager Don Kelly about Oneil Cruz’s hip flexor injury, not a direct quote from Cruz himself, but it provides insight into his status in July 2025.)
- “I would hope that he would be able to still participate.” (This is manager Don Kelly’s statement regarding Cruz’s potential participation in the Home Run Derby after his hip injury, not a direct quote from Cruz.)
- “He has to be physically ready to participate in the Home Run Derby, they should know by the end of the game.” (This is General Manager Ben Cherington’s statement regarding Cruz’s readiness for the Home Run Derby, not a direct quote from Cruz.)
- “Don’t make Oneil Cruz angry. You won’t like him when he’s angry 😳” (This is a quote posted by the Pittsburgh Pirates’ official account on Bluesky, humorously referencing Cruz.)
- “I believe he’ll see this as a really good challenge and opportunity for him. And, just as importantly, an opportunity for the team. He’s got a chance to really help the team. I really believe that’s how he’ll see it.” (This is General Manager Ben Cherington’s quote regarding Cruz’s move to center field, reflecting the team’s belief in Cruz’s mindset, not a direct quote from Cruz.)
Conclusion: Oneil Cruz Isn’t Just a Prospect—He’s a Force
Oneil Cruz brings something rare to baseball: unfiltered belief mixed with raw talent. His quotes reflect the heart of a player who’s hungry—not just for hits and highlights—but for greatness. Whether he’s launching a home run at lightning speed or making history at shortstop, Cruz plays like someone with something to prove.
And based on what he’s saying—and doing—he’s just getting started.
