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The Journey Home: My Life in Pinstripes
The legendary New York Yankee catcher tells the incredible story of his personal journey, offering an unexpected, behind-the-plate view of his career, his past, and the father-son bond that fueled his love of the game.
For seventeen seasons, the name Jorge Posada was synonymous with New York Yankees baseball. A fixture behind home plate throughout the Yankees biggest successes, Jorge became the Yankees' star catcher almost immediately upon his arrival, and in the years that followed, his accomplishments, work ethic, and leadership established him as one of the greatest Yankees ever to put on the uniform.
Now, in this long-awaited memoir, Jorge Posada details his journey to home plate, sharing a remarkable, generational account of his journey from the ball fields of Puerto Rico to the House that Ruth built. Offering a view from behind the mask unlike any other, Jorge discusses the key moments and plays that shaped teams and forged a legacy that came to define Yankee baseball for a generation. With pitch-by-pitch recall, Jorge looks back across the years, explaining how—as part of the Core Four alongside Derek Jeter, Andy Pettitte, and Mariano Rivera—he helped to reestablish the Yankees as a dynasty and win five World Series.
Going beyond his all-star career, Jorge also shares his life in full for the first time, examining how his remarkable journey to the big leagues began in the most unexpected of ways. Digging into his cultural roots in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba, Jorge illuminates three generations of cherished father-son relationships that have made him the man he is today. At the center is the deep bond he shares with his father and namesake, Jorge Sr, who escaped Cuba and would eventually mold his son to be a ball player, honing his talent and instilling in him the drive necessary to fulfill his childhood dream of playing in the Bronx.
Complete with sixteen pages of color photographs, this touching and earnest memoir is a testament to hard work and a celebration of the generational gift of baseball between fathers and sons.
For seventeen seasons, the name Jorge Posada was synonymous with New York Yankees baseball. A fixture behind home plate throughout the Yankees biggest successes, Jorge became the Yankees' star catcher almost immediately upon his arrival, and in the years that followed, his accomplishments, work ethic, and leadership established him as one of the greatest Yankees ever to put on the uniform.
Now, in this long-awaited memoir, Jorge Posada details his journey to home plate, sharing a remarkable, generational account of his journey from the ball fields of Puerto Rico to the House that Ruth built. Offering a view from behind the mask unlike any other, Jorge discusses the key moments and plays that shaped teams and forged a legacy that came to define Yankee baseball for a generation. With pitch-by-pitch recall, Jorge looks back across the years, explaining how—as part of the Core Four alongside Derek Jeter, Andy Pettitte, and Mariano Rivera—he helped to reestablish the Yankees as a dynasty and win five World Series.
Going beyond his all-star career, Jorge also shares his life in full for the first time, examining how his remarkable journey to the big leagues began in the most unexpected of ways. Digging into his cultural roots in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba, Jorge illuminates three generations of cherished father-son relationships that have made him the man he is today. At the center is the deep bond he shares with his father and namesake, Jorge Sr, who escaped Cuba and would eventually mold his son to be a ball player, honing his talent and instilling in him the drive necessary to fulfill his childhood dream of playing in the Bronx.
Complete with sixteen pages of color photographs, this touching and earnest memoir is a testament to hard work and a celebration of the generational gift of baseball between fathers and sons.
1 pages, Audiobook
First published May 5, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 19, 2015
I love reading books about Yankee players. In the past I have read books about Greg Nettles, Bobby Murcer, Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, and now Jorge Posada. The books by Mo and Jorge reflect how they were brought up in other countries with the hopes and dreams of someday being a major league baseball player. I am so glad their dreams came true.
June 5, 2016
As a long, long, -long-time fan of the Yankees, I can't claim to be at all impartial about this autobiography by one of the core four. Back in the late 1980's and early '90's the Columbus Clippers were the triple-A farm club of the Yankees, and more often than not on summer evenings my family and I were at The Coop watching Pettite and Jeter and Williams and Williams and Riviera, as well as great guys like Jim Walewander and Andy Stankowitz and Hensley Meulens that aren't as well remembered anymore. And, of course, for a while Posada was there- I remember the night he was injured, an event he discusses at the start of chapter eight in this book. As a good sports autobiography should, he discusses his life outside of sports in detail and shows how he became the success he turned out to be. He especially talks about his complex relationship with his father, which struck me as downright abusive at times. One thing that impressed me about the book was that, despite his reputation as a fierce competitor who often had difficulty getting along well with some of his teammates and associates, he didn't really have anything bad to say about anyone... except Pedro Martinez. He took responsibility for some of his famous problems in getting along with others and was more than generous in saying they had their own way of looking at things and admitting their viewpoints were equally valid. (Except for Martinez... really, how can you defend an athlete who slams a 72 year old on his head?) There were several lines printed in Spanish that I wasn't sure I was getting the full gist of and wished a translation has been provided, but that's a minor complaint. I was also surprised that despite the phenomenal success the Yankees enjoyed during his tenure he seemed disappointed that they didn't win it all every year! I also enjoyed learning more about some of the other players from his point of view, such as his friendship with Jeter and Torre. Overall, it's a fascinating and well-told story, funny in spots and bemusing in others, and I enjoyed reading it very much. (I won my copy in a Goodreads giveaway.)
September 3, 2017
Jorge Posada was a key member of the recent New York Yankees success that resulted in five World Series championships and two additional American League pennants between 1996 and 2009. He recalls not only his baseball career with the Yankees but also his upbringing and journey to the major leagues in this memoir written with Gary Brozek.
His relationship with his father is the most interesting aspect of the book, as he recalls the lessons taught by his father Jorge Sr. that Jorge Jr. could not understand at first. A good example of this type of lesson does not deal with baseball, but instead the chore of painting a wrought iron fence. Instead of easily spray painting the iron bars without any other work, the father insisted his son sand off all rust and old paint before applying the new coats – by hand. Jorge Jr. talks about how that chore that he hated taught him how important it is to prepare properly and complete a job the right way.
This type of work ethic also applied to his baseball skills and development, both from his father and in the organized baseball he played in his native Puerto Rico and at an Alabama junior college. This led to his being drafted and signed by the Yankees, with his father providing assistance and advice along the way – but not enough to interfere with any coaches.
After that, Posada talks about his time in the Yankee system, during which he became a full-time catcher and what it meant for him to be a Yankee. The chronology of his time with the Yankees is written with fondness for the memories and gratefulness for the chances he was given. The seasons in which the Yankees won the World Series are covered in the greatest detail, while other seasons are skimmed over, which makes reading these passage feel choppy and disjointed. The story ends when Posada announced his retirement in early 2012, which was a surprise as this is not a common point to end this type of book.
It should also be noted that his son, Jorge III, was born with a rare condition affecting his skull and the reader will feel the heartbreak and relief that Jorge and his wife Laura feel while their young son undergoes multiple surgeries. The support and love shown by his Yankee teammates is illustrated as well and it makes for one of better parts of the story.
Overall, this reads like a typical sports memoir with a little less on the actual game playing and more on the athlete’s life before his professional career. Yankee fans will enjoy this book, especially if they enjoyed the “Core Four.”
I wish to thank Dey Street Books for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
https://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/20...
His relationship with his father is the most interesting aspect of the book, as he recalls the lessons taught by his father Jorge Sr. that Jorge Jr. could not understand at first. A good example of this type of lesson does not deal with baseball, but instead the chore of painting a wrought iron fence. Instead of easily spray painting the iron bars without any other work, the father insisted his son sand off all rust and old paint before applying the new coats – by hand. Jorge Jr. talks about how that chore that he hated taught him how important it is to prepare properly and complete a job the right way.
This type of work ethic also applied to his baseball skills and development, both from his father and in the organized baseball he played in his native Puerto Rico and at an Alabama junior college. This led to his being drafted and signed by the Yankees, with his father providing assistance and advice along the way – but not enough to interfere with any coaches.
After that, Posada talks about his time in the Yankee system, during which he became a full-time catcher and what it meant for him to be a Yankee. The chronology of his time with the Yankees is written with fondness for the memories and gratefulness for the chances he was given. The seasons in which the Yankees won the World Series are covered in the greatest detail, while other seasons are skimmed over, which makes reading these passage feel choppy and disjointed. The story ends when Posada announced his retirement in early 2012, which was a surprise as this is not a common point to end this type of book.
It should also be noted that his son, Jorge III, was born with a rare condition affecting his skull and the reader will feel the heartbreak and relief that Jorge and his wife Laura feel while their young son undergoes multiple surgeries. The support and love shown by his Yankee teammates is illustrated as well and it makes for one of better parts of the story.
Overall, this reads like a typical sports memoir with a little less on the actual game playing and more on the athlete’s life before his professional career. Yankee fans will enjoy this book, especially if they enjoyed the “Core Four.”
I wish to thank Dey Street Books for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
https://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/20...
March 1, 2022
The Journey Home details the life of Yankees legend Jorge Posada. An autobiography written by himself and with the help of Gary Brozek, goes in depth on journey to major leagues, spanning from his childhood and even into his retirement.
The book starts of by explaining how Jorge Posada fell in love with the game of baseball, and what he did to improve his game. In the early stages and throughout the book, there is some sort of connection to what he’s doing with his dad. His dad was a huge part of his life, and always tried to push Jorge Posada to be a better man and baseball player. He talks about how he always wanted to be like his dad. He talks about his childhood experiences and what life was like in Puerto Rico.
He also talks about what it’s like to be a catcher and how to be a catcher; then he moves on to talking about the emotions roller coaster of playing in the minor leagues was, wondering if he was going to get called up to the Yankees.
Then the rest of the book Posada talks about his big league career and retirement. He talks about the Worlds Series wins and losses, and all the ups and downs of his big league career, and how he helps out people in Puerto Rico and others during retirement. One of the many life lessons in this book is that if you have a dream and you’re willing to put in the work, you can achieve anything. Posada spent hours upon hours playing baseball as a kid, did hour of manual labor to get stronger, and was forced to hit left and righty. Another lesson taught is to never forget where you came from.
Posada always goes back to Puerto Rico and helps with local charities and help others in need as well. He always brought a little bit of Puerto Rico with hime where ever he went. Thirdly, a lesson that I learned is that you’re going to do a lot of things that you don’t like in life, but you’re going to have to do them to be successful.
There were a few pictures in the middle of the book, and I actually thought they moved the story along really well, and had a really strong significance on the book. Looking at the pictures, it shows Jorge’s greatest greatest memories throughout life, and really showed the kind of person he was. I would recommend this book not only because of all the great lessons, but you get to see the life of a really good person.
- Brian, Grade 11
The book starts of by explaining how Jorge Posada fell in love with the game of baseball, and what he did to improve his game. In the early stages and throughout the book, there is some sort of connection to what he’s doing with his dad. His dad was a huge part of his life, and always tried to push Jorge Posada to be a better man and baseball player. He talks about how he always wanted to be like his dad. He talks about his childhood experiences and what life was like in Puerto Rico.
He also talks about what it’s like to be a catcher and how to be a catcher; then he moves on to talking about the emotions roller coaster of playing in the minor leagues was, wondering if he was going to get called up to the Yankees.
Then the rest of the book Posada talks about his big league career and retirement. He talks about the Worlds Series wins and losses, and all the ups and downs of his big league career, and how he helps out people in Puerto Rico and others during retirement. One of the many life lessons in this book is that if you have a dream and you’re willing to put in the work, you can achieve anything. Posada spent hours upon hours playing baseball as a kid, did hour of manual labor to get stronger, and was forced to hit left and righty. Another lesson taught is to never forget where you came from.
Posada always goes back to Puerto Rico and helps with local charities and help others in need as well. He always brought a little bit of Puerto Rico with hime where ever he went. Thirdly, a lesson that I learned is that you’re going to do a lot of things that you don’t like in life, but you’re going to have to do them to be successful.
There were a few pictures in the middle of the book, and I actually thought they moved the story along really well, and had a really strong significance on the book. Looking at the pictures, it shows Jorge’s greatest greatest memories throughout life, and really showed the kind of person he was. I would recommend this book not only because of all the great lessons, but you get to see the life of a really good person.
- Brian, Grade 11
October 11, 2015
As much as I hated New York Yankees that stars Derek Jeter, David Wells, Andy Pettitte, Mariano Rivera, Roger Clemens, Bernie Williams, and JORGE POSADA alongside Joe Torre who's the manger or say "the father of this team," I couldn't avoid the fact of this team that won several championships together is also one of the most entertaining teams in the history of sports.
I appreciated reading biographies by Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, and Joe Torre, and I planned to reread them within a year, so I can write a good review on each book. But above all, I certainly want to read a biography by David Wells because he's far the most dramatic individual comparing to the rest of these individuals combined. It contains 432 pages, so clearly, he contributed countless amusing stories. Unfortunately, it isn't published for kindle yet. I can write all day on how captivating this heart team is. Instead, I'll focus on writing about Jorge Posada and his book.
When watched them playing, I recognized Jorge's character differed from others. Although, he's very quiet and humble, his work ethic, passion, and heart were loud enough to automatically put himself in a spotlight. Not only that, he didn't have his "athletic" appearance. Just an appearance of a gentleman with his vigorously facial expression of being focused.
At the point of reading his book, I was startled by the relationship between Jorge and his father. Yeah, I'm being frustrated with my dad. I often can't stand his pushy tactics, but Jorge's dad was definitely far worse than my dad. I admire Jorge for how he countered his dad's pushy tactics. Instead of talking back or rebelling, like Jorge, I should walk his talk. Lately, I've noticed myself doing a satisfying performance according to Jorge's action. It's the most considerable lesson I've received from him, that made my reading worthy. I really hope I can bump into him someday to tell him how much I appreciate his sharing stories with his father.
Another great thing about this book is Jorge didn't stake much about his excellency performances during his playing for Yankees, where athletes biographies often point out the multiple of their favorite highlights. Sometimes I wouldn't be able to comprehead what they were explaining because I didn't witness the plays. Honestly, they shouldn't be expected me to witness every highlight of their performance. They weren't that big as they thought. I regularly found myself skimming through biographies, but not the book by Jorge. I enjoy his sharing details on his process from his childhood until after his retirement as a ballplayer. He demonstrated clearly to show how he earned his succeed.
Several of his point of views in life are something that I would want to remember for the rest of my life.
--"You have to get used to failure and getting a hit three times out of every ten could get you into the Hall of Fame."--
This could imply to every career possible. For example, if I want to become a teacher, I have to expect myself failing from time to time and learn from them. Or, there are couple of requirement tests before I can become a teacher. I cannot take myself back if I fail at one point. I have to continue to study harder, take the next text, and be sure to pass it. His statement is telling us to not fall back when we experience any kind of failure.
--"Take the game seriously but not yourself--that was a lesson I was going to have to wait another season to experience up close and personal."--
As a teacher, I shouldn't be firm about myself while teaching. Don't dwell on this and that or push myself. Instead, follow the way of teaching such as preparation, analyze, and teach as of focusing on its own process. Allow my delegations direct the process itself.
--"If I didn't have that kind of faith in myself, then I wouldn't have achieved what I had to that point. Show me a guy who doesn't think he can or should be an everyday player, and I'll show you a guy who sits on the bench and deserves to because he doesn't have enough faith in himself. I was never going to be that guy."--
Faith is ultimately the key root to one's succeed. Faith is right behind of one's motivation, contribution, and everything else in order to become the one who you want to be. Having faith in myself is the most important ingredient to live to the fullest on the Earth.
--It was clear the organization liked me and was grooming me to be their guy, but now the Yankees had another option in the form of Joe Girardi. I spoke with my dad, and he set me straight. He liked that I was getting angry and impatient. I had to turn that anger into something more productive."--
I sometimes would find myself being angry and affect my doing to pursue what I want to do. For example, if I get mad for failing a test, I should study harder instead of whining or postponing the day of taking next test. Just instill my anger to do things better.
--"Work ethic eliminates fear."--
No reason to be paranoid over something when I'm fully prepared to do what I'm supposed to do. Practice, train, practice, and train and never stop because perfection doesn't existed.
--"Do something positive to make coaches notice you.--
Show up earlier for interview sessions, show up class early and leave the class last for the sake of preparation, study in ahead of time, stay healthy, sleep well, and be sure to master every small detail in order to be succeed in any type of my career.
--"I didn't just how important that was until we reached the playoffs"--
Every moment is important and precious. Don't take a moment for granted.
--"I'd take behind the plate for years to come when a guy is on his game, don't get in his way. Don't make him do something to make it harder for him. There are no point awarded."--
Don't put myself and others in comparison seriously. Admire their doing at the same time I do the best for myself, following the way I put in my own efforts. Don't waste my time on trying to figure out a way to be better or outplay someone else. Focus on myself and my own process.
--"With Roger Clemens' work ethic and preparation, he se a standard for toughness that I then applied in dealing with other guys."--
If I don't appreciate the performance by my co-workers, I should continue in doing my best to demonstrate for them to follow up.
I've always cherished for who Derek Jeter is not because of what he did. It's because of his calmness and being good at keeping secrets in respect of himself and others. His calmness at the same time being effective at its finest is absolutely a rare skill to possess. Such a great reminder when Jorge mentioned him.
I was amazed by Jorge playing on a high level while his first son's life was in jeopardy. I was impressed on how he handled this with his wife and his son, and he carried on his frustrations, channeled them into a positive way and played effective on the field.
--"Winning is such a fragile thing. If you take away any element that supports it, it falls to the ground and shatters."--
Yup, again, every detail is very important. Pay attention to every detail. Pay attention!
Thank you, Jorge Posada, for sharing your beloved journey!
I appreciated reading biographies by Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, and Joe Torre, and I planned to reread them within a year, so I can write a good review on each book. But above all, I certainly want to read a biography by David Wells because he's far the most dramatic individual comparing to the rest of these individuals combined. It contains 432 pages, so clearly, he contributed countless amusing stories. Unfortunately, it isn't published for kindle yet. I can write all day on how captivating this heart team is. Instead, I'll focus on writing about Jorge Posada and his book.
When watched them playing, I recognized Jorge's character differed from others. Although, he's very quiet and humble, his work ethic, passion, and heart were loud enough to automatically put himself in a spotlight. Not only that, he didn't have his "athletic" appearance. Just an appearance of a gentleman with his vigorously facial expression of being focused.
At the point of reading his book, I was startled by the relationship between Jorge and his father. Yeah, I'm being frustrated with my dad. I often can't stand his pushy tactics, but Jorge's dad was definitely far worse than my dad. I admire Jorge for how he countered his dad's pushy tactics. Instead of talking back or rebelling, like Jorge, I should walk his talk. Lately, I've noticed myself doing a satisfying performance according to Jorge's action. It's the most considerable lesson I've received from him, that made my reading worthy. I really hope I can bump into him someday to tell him how much I appreciate his sharing stories with his father.
Another great thing about this book is Jorge didn't stake much about his excellency performances during his playing for Yankees, where athletes biographies often point out the multiple of their favorite highlights. Sometimes I wouldn't be able to comprehead what they were explaining because I didn't witness the plays. Honestly, they shouldn't be expected me to witness every highlight of their performance. They weren't that big as they thought. I regularly found myself skimming through biographies, but not the book by Jorge. I enjoy his sharing details on his process from his childhood until after his retirement as a ballplayer. He demonstrated clearly to show how he earned his succeed.
Several of his point of views in life are something that I would want to remember for the rest of my life.
--"You have to get used to failure and getting a hit three times out of every ten could get you into the Hall of Fame."--
This could imply to every career possible. For example, if I want to become a teacher, I have to expect myself failing from time to time and learn from them. Or, there are couple of requirement tests before I can become a teacher. I cannot take myself back if I fail at one point. I have to continue to study harder, take the next text, and be sure to pass it. His statement is telling us to not fall back when we experience any kind of failure.
--"Take the game seriously but not yourself--that was a lesson I was going to have to wait another season to experience up close and personal."--
As a teacher, I shouldn't be firm about myself while teaching. Don't dwell on this and that or push myself. Instead, follow the way of teaching such as preparation, analyze, and teach as of focusing on its own process. Allow my delegations direct the process itself.
--"If I didn't have that kind of faith in myself, then I wouldn't have achieved what I had to that point. Show me a guy who doesn't think he can or should be an everyday player, and I'll show you a guy who sits on the bench and deserves to because he doesn't have enough faith in himself. I was never going to be that guy."--
Faith is ultimately the key root to one's succeed. Faith is right behind of one's motivation, contribution, and everything else in order to become the one who you want to be. Having faith in myself is the most important ingredient to live to the fullest on the Earth.
--It was clear the organization liked me and was grooming me to be their guy, but now the Yankees had another option in the form of Joe Girardi. I spoke with my dad, and he set me straight. He liked that I was getting angry and impatient. I had to turn that anger into something more productive."--
I sometimes would find myself being angry and affect my doing to pursue what I want to do. For example, if I get mad for failing a test, I should study harder instead of whining or postponing the day of taking next test. Just instill my anger to do things better.
--"Work ethic eliminates fear."--
No reason to be paranoid over something when I'm fully prepared to do what I'm supposed to do. Practice, train, practice, and train and never stop because perfection doesn't existed.
--"Do something positive to make coaches notice you.--
Show up earlier for interview sessions, show up class early and leave the class last for the sake of preparation, study in ahead of time, stay healthy, sleep well, and be sure to master every small detail in order to be succeed in any type of my career.
--"I didn't just how important that was until we reached the playoffs"--
Every moment is important and precious. Don't take a moment for granted.
--"I'd take behind the plate for years to come when a guy is on his game, don't get in his way. Don't make him do something to make it harder for him. There are no point awarded."--
Don't put myself and others in comparison seriously. Admire their doing at the same time I do the best for myself, following the way I put in my own efforts. Don't waste my time on trying to figure out a way to be better or outplay someone else. Focus on myself and my own process.
--"With Roger Clemens' work ethic and preparation, he se a standard for toughness that I then applied in dealing with other guys."--
If I don't appreciate the performance by my co-workers, I should continue in doing my best to demonstrate for them to follow up.
I've always cherished for who Derek Jeter is not because of what he did. It's because of his calmness and being good at keeping secrets in respect of himself and others. His calmness at the same time being effective at its finest is absolutely a rare skill to possess. Such a great reminder when Jorge mentioned him.
I was amazed by Jorge playing on a high level while his first son's life was in jeopardy. I was impressed on how he handled this with his wife and his son, and he carried on his frustrations, channeled them into a positive way and played effective on the field.
--"Winning is such a fragile thing. If you take away any element that supports it, it falls to the ground and shatters."--
Yup, again, every detail is very important. Pay attention to every detail. Pay attention!
Thank you, Jorge Posada, for sharing your beloved journey!
July 1, 2015
Who ever said don't meet your heros, must not have know about Jorge Posada. I grew up watching him behind the plate in pinstripes and I respected and idolized him. After reading his book I know that I made the right choice in picking him as a hero. His story is touching, inspiring, and unexpectedly funny. I would recommend this for anyone baseball lover who wants to feel like part of the ballclub
December 23, 2015
Great look back at the 1990s Yankee dynasty and also a great look at what it takes to succeed in the big leagues. Jorge posada is a guy with a lot of class and a lot of stories to tell. This was a great auto-biography for all fans of the Yankees and baseball in general.
February 9, 2019
I have to be honest. Sometimes the best reads result from not knowing too much going in. Having been an intern for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1997, and being born and raised in Pittsburgh, the Yankees were always the team that was not us, and someone to beat. Delving into Posada's autobiography will definitely give you a different perspective than what many view and see the Yankees as.
After finishing this account, I was interested enough to find out more details about controversies where Martinez as a pitcher would intentionally aim for batters, mystery swirling Bernie Williams as a pitcher from baseball, and even into what led up to Posada withdrawing himself from the lineup. It is easy to see major athletes hold a drama card - and I saw so much drama occur within baseball just as one year as an intern, that often never realize. Yet, autobiographies as this do indeed let you in to see the commitment, passion, and drive that athletes have that appear as one thing on a field of play, and the reality of what that is inside.
From doing research, I found some aspects of Posada's experience left out and not discussed regarding his departure from the Yankees as well, which could be for the good of the overall theme of why he was grateful to be a one team player for so long and not serve as a distraction to the honor - but even so, I left feeling that if the inherent passion and commitment that was driven into him all those years as an athlete could not prevent him from withdrawing himself from the lineup - despite his regrets in doing so, it shows one thing - he is human as are all of us. Despite the media, cameras, and buildup of what athletes are - we are all just human capable of regrets and mistakes, and the privilege of being an athlete for the limelight is still a privilege just the same. Hurdles, roadblocks, and hardships sometimes seem even more magnified when you are under such a spotlight, and Posada does a great job of addressing those moments while with the Yankees. A good read to obtain a perspective you would not be able to glean from the media.
After finishing this account, I was interested enough to find out more details about controversies where Martinez as a pitcher would intentionally aim for batters, mystery swirling Bernie Williams as a pitcher from baseball, and even into what led up to Posada withdrawing himself from the lineup. It is easy to see major athletes hold a drama card - and I saw so much drama occur within baseball just as one year as an intern, that often never realize. Yet, autobiographies as this do indeed let you in to see the commitment, passion, and drive that athletes have that appear as one thing on a field of play, and the reality of what that is inside.
From doing research, I found some aspects of Posada's experience left out and not discussed regarding his departure from the Yankees as well, which could be for the good of the overall theme of why he was grateful to be a one team player for so long and not serve as a distraction to the honor - but even so, I left feeling that if the inherent passion and commitment that was driven into him all those years as an athlete could not prevent him from withdrawing himself from the lineup - despite his regrets in doing so, it shows one thing - he is human as are all of us. Despite the media, cameras, and buildup of what athletes are - we are all just human capable of regrets and mistakes, and the privilege of being an athlete for the limelight is still a privilege just the same. Hurdles, roadblocks, and hardships sometimes seem even more magnified when you are under such a spotlight, and Posada does a great job of addressing those moments while with the Yankees. A good read to obtain a perspective you would not be able to glean from the media.
February 23, 2018
Recently, I finished a great biography called the Journey Home By Jorge Posada. Jorge is a former MLB superstar who writes about his life with help from Gary Brozek. Jorge has also written 2 other books.
The main character in the The journey home, is Jorge Posada. The biography tells the story of his life from his point of view. It also tells us about his journey to the major leagues. In this book Posada teaches important life lessons that he learned throughout his life.
In writing this book, Posada helps us understand the struggles he went through. Some of the struggles include living in a new country, and learning to speak English, and learning playing new positions. When struggling with something in life it is important to share with other people because they might be going through the same thing.
While sometimes this was a little slow, i overall thought the book was very entertaining and enlightening. The author did a good job of putting his life story together, without unnecessary information witch could cause the book to be very boring. The main character, Jorge Posada, is funny and courageous. The only thing i did not like about the book was that it was a bit slow at some parts.
I would recommend this book to teens, and mostly teenage boys, because this book is about baseball. However, before they read The Journey Home, They should know that there is some mild language.
The main character in the The journey home, is Jorge Posada. The biography tells the story of his life from his point of view. It also tells us about his journey to the major leagues. In this book Posada teaches important life lessons that he learned throughout his life.
In writing this book, Posada helps us understand the struggles he went through. Some of the struggles include living in a new country, and learning to speak English, and learning playing new positions. When struggling with something in life it is important to share with other people because they might be going through the same thing.
While sometimes this was a little slow, i overall thought the book was very entertaining and enlightening. The author did a good job of putting his life story together, without unnecessary information witch could cause the book to be very boring. The main character, Jorge Posada, is funny and courageous. The only thing i did not like about the book was that it was a bit slow at some parts.
I would recommend this book to teens, and mostly teenage boys, because this book is about baseball. However, before they read The Journey Home, They should know that there is some mild language.
January 14, 2018
Jorge Posada - unfairly though almost certainly doomed to history as the "other guy" for baseball enthusiasts trying to recite the entire New York Yankee "Core Four" - had a a front row view for a remarkable era of Bronx baseball. From his humble begins as the dumpy son of MLB scout, Posada retells the complex "tough love" relationship that he endured/enjoyed with his father that ultimately shaped his path to the big leagues. If he spends more time dwelling on the glory of the Torre dynasty when recounting his career, Posada most certainly expends more energy recounting his failures as a child than his triumphs. It is through his retelling of these trials and traumas the reader can begin to see what it took for Posada to get to New York and why he was able to stay there: an obsessive, goal-oriented nature and a relentless work ethic.
November 4, 2017
Enjoyable book about Posada’s life ion Puerto Rico and his rise to be a NY Yankee. Enjoyed the stories about his struggles adjusting to baseball and the stories of the recent glory years of Yankee baseball. In addition the relationship with his father and he and his wives struggles with his sons medical issues add to the book
April 20, 2020
As a fan of the game of baseball, having played and umpired at various levels, I thoroughly enjoyed learning the journey of this Yankee modern era legend. My favorite line in the book is this, “In order to be successful, you have to never quit and never be ok with losing and failure.” Amazing story and worth the time I spent listening to it.
September 7, 2017
As a baseball fan and player, I was able to relate and enjoy the book.
September 22, 2024
Hip-hip Jorge!!!
December 11, 2024
Buena biografía del gran Jorge Posada, leyenda de los Yankees!
October 9, 2025
Great book
The book was good. Jorge was the best catcher in baseball. Thank you Jorge for the great memories as a Yankee
The book was good. Jorge was the best catcher in baseball. Thank you Jorge for the great memories as a Yankee
August 19, 2015
Over a sixteen year career with the New York Yankees, he played in 1,574 games. Between 1998 and 2008, he caught those 90 to 100 mile an hour fast balls full time “without going on the disabled list a single time.” By his own estimate, he “got up out of the crouch and then back down into it” at least 220,000 times. With all those squats, why is it I had never really heard about Jorge Posada until I picked up his book? Full disclosure, my Yankee-watching days ended in the mid-to-late fifties and early sixties with the careers of pinstripe legends like Berra, Ford, Mantle and Maris.
You should come away from Jorge Posada’s sports memoir with at least one overall impression. Posada’s father, Jorge Senior, was an extremely powerful force in his life. As the former Yankee put it in his prologue: “My father . . . taught me . . . life seldom presents you with a level playing field. If you work hard enough, believe in yourself enough, and have enough passion and stubbornness, you can level that field yourself.”
In spite of the elder Posada’s continual efforts at stage managing his son’s entire athletic career, the younger Posada seems to understand his father’s methods to his madness. Posada writes, “I felt like I had to take a lot of what my father was handing out---his discipline, his demands and his sometimes unexpected and inexplicable desires. But I was also being given a whole lot of opportunities.” At one point, Posada claims that “neither my dad nor I . . . liked to let other people or beings or forces take control of our lives.” Yet, in my view, that’s exactly what Jorge allowed his own father to do. For example, Jorge Senior forced his son to become a switch hitter, (which may have been a good thing ultimately). But, he later in life told his son where he could live and go to college, apparently costing him a potential spot on either the Florida International University or University of Miami baseball teams. In fact, becoming a ballplayer was a goal that Jorge admits his own father had set for him.
It’s one thing to stage manage our children’s lives, (whether they want us to or not), but, to do so without emotional support, in my view, is unforgiveable. By his own admission, Jorge’s father came up short big time in that department. For example, in the 2007 baseball season, with Posada still in the top five in the league in batting average, all his father could say to him was “Unbelievable.” Posada admits, “That was as close as my dad came to stating right out that he was proud of me.” Posada seems so brainwashed or programmed to accept his father’s detached parenting methods that he claims, “I didn’t need (to hear ‘Good job’ or ‘Proud of you’) from him because it would have come across as insincere and out of character.”
Posada’s last manager on the Yankee team, Joe Girardi must’ve borrowed a page from the elder Posada’s parenting playbook. After Girardi replaced Joe Torre in the New York dugout, (Posada regarded Torre as his “father on the field,”), face-to-face encounters Posada had with Girardi in 2008 turned into text messages the following season. The lack of face-to-face contact, Posada admits, “was a tough adjustment (for him) to make.” Girardi “didn’t seem to have the same kind of open-door communication approach that Joe Torre did,” according to Posada. That impersonal managerial style may have also been behind Girardi’s technique of bringing in “guest speakers . . . to talk to (the Yankee players) about the mental side of the game.”
With the help of co-author Gary Brozek, Posada documents the twilight of his Yankee career. We see the native Puerto Rican struggle through just 51 games played in the 2008 season prior to shoulder surgery. The next year, Posada missed 22 games. Later, Posada saw the handwriting on the wall when the “Yankee Way” became corrupted with a poor work ethic and players who were more concerned with social media than balls and strikes and a win-loss column.
Posada writes that the moment he learned he had run the fastest in a 60-yard dash tryout for his father’s team “remains among (his) best memories in the game.” The retired Yankee felt “that moment . . . best summarizes (his) career and how (he) want(s) people to remember (him) as a ballplayer.” Sorry, Jorge, even after reading your 344-page memoir, I still don’t remember you or your life in pinstripes!
You should come away from Jorge Posada’s sports memoir with at least one overall impression. Posada’s father, Jorge Senior, was an extremely powerful force in his life. As the former Yankee put it in his prologue: “My father . . . taught me . . . life seldom presents you with a level playing field. If you work hard enough, believe in yourself enough, and have enough passion and stubbornness, you can level that field yourself.”
In spite of the elder Posada’s continual efforts at stage managing his son’s entire athletic career, the younger Posada seems to understand his father’s methods to his madness. Posada writes, “I felt like I had to take a lot of what my father was handing out---his discipline, his demands and his sometimes unexpected and inexplicable desires. But I was also being given a whole lot of opportunities.” At one point, Posada claims that “neither my dad nor I . . . liked to let other people or beings or forces take control of our lives.” Yet, in my view, that’s exactly what Jorge allowed his own father to do. For example, Jorge Senior forced his son to become a switch hitter, (which may have been a good thing ultimately). But, he later in life told his son where he could live and go to college, apparently costing him a potential spot on either the Florida International University or University of Miami baseball teams. In fact, becoming a ballplayer was a goal that Jorge admits his own father had set for him.
It’s one thing to stage manage our children’s lives, (whether they want us to or not), but, to do so without emotional support, in my view, is unforgiveable. By his own admission, Jorge’s father came up short big time in that department. For example, in the 2007 baseball season, with Posada still in the top five in the league in batting average, all his father could say to him was “Unbelievable.” Posada admits, “That was as close as my dad came to stating right out that he was proud of me.” Posada seems so brainwashed or programmed to accept his father’s detached parenting methods that he claims, “I didn’t need (to hear ‘Good job’ or ‘Proud of you’) from him because it would have come across as insincere and out of character.”
Posada’s last manager on the Yankee team, Joe Girardi must’ve borrowed a page from the elder Posada’s parenting playbook. After Girardi replaced Joe Torre in the New York dugout, (Posada regarded Torre as his “father on the field,”), face-to-face encounters Posada had with Girardi in 2008 turned into text messages the following season. The lack of face-to-face contact, Posada admits, “was a tough adjustment (for him) to make.” Girardi “didn’t seem to have the same kind of open-door communication approach that Joe Torre did,” according to Posada. That impersonal managerial style may have also been behind Girardi’s technique of bringing in “guest speakers . . . to talk to (the Yankee players) about the mental side of the game.”
With the help of co-author Gary Brozek, Posada documents the twilight of his Yankee career. We see the native Puerto Rican struggle through just 51 games played in the 2008 season prior to shoulder surgery. The next year, Posada missed 22 games. Later, Posada saw the handwriting on the wall when the “Yankee Way” became corrupted with a poor work ethic and players who were more concerned with social media than balls and strikes and a win-loss column.
Posada writes that the moment he learned he had run the fastest in a 60-yard dash tryout for his father’s team “remains among (his) best memories in the game.” The retired Yankee felt “that moment . . . best summarizes (his) career and how (he) want(s) people to remember (him) as a ballplayer.” Sorry, Jorge, even after reading your 344-page memoir, I still don’t remember you or your life in pinstripes!
July 21, 2015
Jorge Posada provides a tremendous account of his life, his journey, and his struggles. Many of the autobiographies that I have read, especially concerning sports players, tend to over recap on games; but Jorge Posada does not recap. Jorge tells stories: many funny, difficult, and engaging stories of his life.
In reading this book, I felt that Jorge was sitting down in the same room as me telling me his life. The major themes found throughout the book are: the relationship between Jorge and his father, his friendship with Jeter, his baseball career as a Yankee, his journey to the majors, his childhood growing up, and his family.
Jorge mentioned in the beginning of his book that he had the best vantage point or the best seat in one of the greatest eras of Yankee history playing catcher. I am thankful that Jorge was willing to share his perspective and allow us readers to enter vicariously through his vantage point of his life, journey, and time as a Yankee.
In reading this book, I felt that Jorge was sitting down in the same room as me telling me his life. The major themes found throughout the book are: the relationship between Jorge and his father, his friendship with Jeter, his baseball career as a Yankee, his journey to the majors, his childhood growing up, and his family.
Jorge mentioned in the beginning of his book that he had the best vantage point or the best seat in one of the greatest eras of Yankee history playing catcher. I am thankful that Jorge was willing to share his perspective and allow us readers to enter vicariously through his vantage point of his life, journey, and time as a Yankee.
July 3, 2015
The book go through the sacrifices and hard work Jorge had to go to get to where he dreamed, the New York Yankees. Also the relationship he had with his father, that although he was a tough guy, he did everything he needed to do to push Jorge to be a better player. Sometimes you only see the final product of this professional players, and few people know all the hard work they have to pass through to get to the Big Leagues. I found the book interesting and in some point even inspiring, one have to work hard to get where you have dreamed off.
October 4, 2015
While likely not of interest to readers outside of the universe of Yankee fans, Posada and his co-writer ably sketch out Posada's baseball life.
I was most intrigued by Posada's account of the pre-Yankee period. His stories of his own path and his descriptions of talented friends and teammates he met along the way served to underscore just how incredibly hard it is to get to the major leagues, much less to become a star player.
I was most intrigued by Posada's account of the pre-Yankee period. His stories of his own path and his descriptions of talented friends and teammates he met along the way served to underscore just how incredibly hard it is to get to the major leagues, much less to become a star player.
May 25, 2015
I dislike sports memoirs, especially baseball ones, as they tend to be full of stats, reliving the glory moments by the second. This is not one of those books. There are a few stats, but it is more a story of the relationship between a father and a son, and their love of baseball. I'm a big fan of Posada, and thoroughly enjoyed the book.
June 18, 2016
As a fan of Posada's (and the core 4's,) I really enjoyed this book. I loved reading about the dynamic between his father and him & his life long love of baseball. The only thing that kept this from being a 5 star was at times the flow seemed very awkward.
I won a copy of this book from the Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for a honest review.
I won a copy of this book from the Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for a honest review.
May 21, 2015
For Yankee fans or fans of Jorge Posada. No startling revelations and the usual accolades to father and family members for making him the man and ballplayer he turned out to be. An easy read but nothing special.
April 22, 2015
Nothing particularly unexpected, but a nice, nostalgic look back at the Yankees' great years by one of my favorite players.
July 12, 2015
I loved the book. Real insight into the life of one of my favorite Yankees.
July 23, 2015
Great, motivational story on how determination and work ethic add up to more than innate ability.
June 1, 2016
Skipped parts of his life and important events. Too many details, particularly in games descriptions towards the end of the book.
January 29, 2020
Entertaining
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