“It’s been Carlos’ dream for as long as I can remember and I’m working very hard to do what I can to help make it happen,” Jessica says. Currently, the couple is in the process of procuring land for the high school.

The idea behind the academy is to allow the kids to enhance their athletic skills while learning about one of Carlos’ most public passions (baseball), but also equip them with the tools they will need to succeed off of the diamond. They will learn a trade at the school because not everyone can make it to the major leagues.

Ultimately, the goal is to help prepare these kids to become responsible, productive and compassionate global citizens.

The academy goes hand-in-hand with the Carlos Beltran Foundation, which aims to empower young people to achieve their dreams through sports and education. The charity supports institutions that promote teamwork, dedication, respect and hard work.

During the offseason, Jessica and Carlos are heavily involved in humanitarian work in their hometown of Manati. They visit children’s hospitals, donating toys and host an annual community dinner around the holidays. Jessica and her husband also participate in local organizations such as Harlem RBI/ REAL Kids program.

Since leaving Puerto Rico, the couple has called a number of cities home – Kansas City, Houston and New York during the last 11 seasons. And while they may be far from the place they grew up, Jessica makes sure home is never too far away.

Whether its arriving early to a new house, apartment, or hotel or their existing home before the start of the season to decorate it with family photos -- or simply staying in and cooking a traditional meal from back home, she understand the strength her efforts give to her husband.

And while her impact may not be obvious to outsiders, her imprint is all over the player Carlos is on the field. He wears the number 15 on his back (her birthday is Dec. 15) in her honor and scribbles the letter “J” with his bat in the dirt near the batter’s box before each trip to the plate.