Kumar Rocker is set to make his long-awaited MLB debut and his parents have been with him throughout every step of his winding journey to the big leagues. While not in baseball, his father has professional sports experience, providing him with some insight into this significant moment for his son.
Tracy Rocker, Kumar's father, was an NFL standout for two seasons. He currently works as a defensive line coach with the Tennessee Titans, marking his seventh year coaching at the NFL level. He previously worked with the Philadelphia Eagles from 2021 to 2023.
In his NFL career, Tracy Rocker played with the Washington Commanders (formerly known as Washington Redskins) in 1989 and 1990, starting 17 games over those two seasons.
Kumar's mother, Lu, is an educator of Indian descent. Kumar's MLB debut makes him the first player of Indian descent to play in the league. Once he made his first pitch, he also marked a historic milestone.
Rocker opened up on what that means via MLB.com:
“It definitely means a lot to me. I think it means more to my mom. She always let me know that I was Indian growing up, being half and half. And I think she’s going to be really happy about it."
The Rangers star pitched well in his debut, throwing four innings with one run allowed, three hits, two walks, and seven strikeouts against the Seattle Mariners.
Titans coach shouts out Kumar Rocker's family for MLB debut
Kumar Rocker's father, Tracy, currently works with the Tennessee Titans defense. Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson, who works closely with Rocker, was especially pleased for the family.
"I've been around the Rocker family for many years," Wilson said (per Newsweek). I know his son very well and I understand the relationship he has with his son. So for him as a coach, he's going to do this work, his due diligence. The players understand he's going to get on that plane and forget being a coach. Now he's one of the happiest parents in the world."
Rocker flew back to Tennessee after the game to resume practices ahead of the game this weekend.