Josh Jung’s 2-Run Mother’s Day Homer vs. Brother

In Detroit, Josh Jung surprised his mother, Mary, with a memorable Mother’s Day gift she won’t soon forget. The Texas Rangers’ third baseman launched a two-out, two-run homer in the fifth inning, contributing to his team’s 6-1 victory over the Detroit Tigers on Sunday. Coincidentally, Josh’s brother, Jace, played at the same third base position, but for the opposing Tigers.

Before the game, Mary Jung took a moment to deliver the game ball to the mound, accompanied by her sons, a touching beginning to what would become a day full of family pride and joy. “My heart is just exploding,” Mary Jung expressed with deep emotion during an interview on the Rangers’ telecast. “Being all together, and then seeing them pursue their dreams on the field, it’s the best Mother’s Day gift I could imagine.”

This game marked a historic occurrence, as per the Elias Sports Bureau, with Josh Jung homering against his brother on the first national Mother’s Day noted since 1914—a rare feat in Major League Baseball. “It’s pretty cool, pretty rare,” remarked Josh Jung, acknowledging the uniqueness of the moment.

Mary and Jeff Jung, the proud parents, were present throughout the entire three-game series, which saw both sons starting the previous day in Texas’s 10-3 victory. “It was all very special to everyone involved,” Josh described. “Having our family, including our significant others, in the same city is rare now. Competing against each other is something our parents are particularly proud of. It’s a testament to their sacrifices, and hopefully, seeing us live this moment made them proud.”

Adding to the day’s sentimental touch, the Jung brothers had given their parents unique jerseys—half adorned with the Texas blue and the other half with Detroit white. Mary had previously bought a similar jersey, adding to her collection. Before the game’s first pitch thrown by Tigers’ starter Reese Olson, the brothers accompanied their mother in placing the ball on the mound.

“Moments like these are surreal and may never happen again,” shared Josh Jung, reflecting on a day filled with lasting memories.