Hennessy V.S, always recognizing the best, gave a warm welcome back to the newest Yankee, Carlos Beltrán. The evening celebrated the brand’s second annual Latinos in Baseball event, held this year at the famed Sofrito restaurant. Beltran is a player that personifies Hennessy’s philosophy to Never Stop. Never Settle. In his young career the former New York Met was named Rookie of the Year in 1999, won three Gold Gloves, two Silver Slugger awards and is a charter member of the 30-30 club (30 home runs/30 stolen bases in the same season).

Carlos Beltran

The reception celebrated the popular Puerto Rican player’s return to New York after a successful season with the St. Louis Cardinals that saw him collect his 2,000 hit in the Majors. Joining in the celebration were baseball pitcher Felix Hernandez (King Felix), former players Barry Larkin and Ray Negron, Yankee president Randy Levine, and 20/20 correspondent and host of ABC’s ‘What Would You Do?,’ John Quiñones.

Hennessy Senior Vice president Rodney Williams

In honoring Beltran, Hennessy Senior Vice President Rodney Williams said, “What really differentiates Carlos is his character.” After recounting the anecdote of Beltran surprising his parents by giving them a house in Puerto Rico and the great work the Carlos Beltran Baseball Academy does, Williams continued, “His work ethic exemplifies the idea that you can realize your dreams with  hard work and talent. He really represents the ideals and integrity of baseball. Last year Hennessy funded the Roberto Clemente Museum bringing its artifacts to New York so we can expose a whole new generation to his legacy. It was so successful we did it again in Miami. I’m pretty sure Carlos, the day will come when Hennessy is sponsoring your museum. In the meantime here’s a toast to you, you are a great man and a great sportsman.”

NY Yankee Carlos Beltran

Carlos Beltran with King Felix Hernadez (courtesy of Hennessy)

Carlos Beltran with HOMBRE Magazine’s Francisco Romeo

ABC’s John Quiñones

Yankee president Randy Levine, Carlos Beltran and Hennessy Senior Vice president Rodney Williams

Hennessy Communications Coordinator Lily Rougeot with Francisco Romeo

Carlos Beltran with Barry Larkin (courtesy of Hennessy)

Sofrito owner JR Morales

Hennessy Senior Vice President Rodney Williams with Francisco Romeo

All photos exclusively for HOMBRE by Paul Tirado (except where noted)