José Antonio Iglesias Alemán, affectionately known as Candelita, is not just your typical professional baseball player; he's a multi-talented individual who has successfully bridged the worlds of sports and music. His journey into the limelight began in 2011 when he made his debut in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the prestigious Boston Red Sox. Over the years, Candelita's baseball career has taken him on a remarkable journey, including stints with the Detroit Tigers, Cincinnati Reds, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Angels, Colorado Rockies, Miami Marlins, the New York Mets, and San Diego Padres. In 2025, after a brief and impactful period with the Padres, he made the bold decision to explore the vast landscape of free agency. However, Candelita's talents extend far beyond the baseball diamond. With music coursing through his veins, he has demonstrated an innate and extraordinary ability to connect with audiences through melodies and lyrics. From a very young age he demonstrated his talent by writing poetry and over the years taking singing lessons, knowing that one day this moment would come. In recent years, during his spare time, he has been preparing himself by composing with greats of Latin music, J Pro, Pipo, Antonio Barullo, EL Micha, Lenier y Guianko “Yanko” Gomez and working with music producers of the stature of Gatillo, Motiff, Pututi just to name of few. The year 2023 marked a pivotal moment in his life when he ventured into the artistic realm. In August of that same year, he unveiled his highly-anticipated debut single, "Tambor". This release was not just a song; it was a resounding announcement of his official transition from the world of Major League Baseball to the vibrant and ever-evolving world of music. Candelita's presence is not confined to the world of baseball alone; he is a beloved figure whose charm, charisma, and undeniable talent have captured the hearts of fans far and wide. As he embarks on this new chapter in his life, there's no doubt that he will leave an indelible mark on the music industry, just as he did in the world of baseball. The music video for "Tambor" has already garnered immense attention, amassing more than two hundred thousand views on his official YouTube channel, a testament to his magnetic appeal and the resonance of his music with his growing fanbase. Candelita's journey is one of unwavering determination, versatility, and a relentless pursuit of his passions, making him a true inspiration both on and off the field.
(José "Candelita" Iglesias, photo courtesy of Polk & Co.)