Mark Teixeira, a former first baseman for the New York Yankees who was key in the team’s most recent World Series win, announced on Thursday his intention to run for Congress from his hometown in Texas.
“As a lifelong conservative who loves this country, I run for Congress to fight for the principles that make Texas and America great,” Teixeira expressed during his campaign announcement, reflecting on his 14-year major league career that included stints with the Atlanta Braves, Texas Rangers, and Los Angeles Angels.
“Teamwork is essential for success. We’re prepared to assist President Trump in protecting American values, families in Texas, and individual freedoms,” he added.
Teixeira, now 45, aims to represent Texas’s 21st District in the Texas Hill Country, located north of San Antonio and west of Austin. The seat is currently held by Republican Chip Roy, who is set to run for Texas Attorney General in 2026, following his announcement last week.
In his campaign rollout, Teixeira promised to collaborate with Trump on various issues, including securing the borders, boosting the economy, ending progressive ideologies, advocating for energy independence, protecting life and the Second Amendment, ceasing endless wars, and reinforcing the military.
“Playing for the Texas Rangers and raising my family in Texas has been one of the best parts of my life,” he said. “Now, I’m ready to serve the conservative principles that have shaped my state and my country.”
Although originally from Maryland, Teixeira spent much of his career with the Yankees, signing a significant eight-year, $180 million contract in December 2008. The following year, he achieved impressive stats, hitting 39 home runs and garnering 122 RBIs as the Yankees clinched their 27th title by defeating the Philadelphia Phillies.
During his time with the Yankees, Teixeira earned three Gold Glove awards and made two American League All-Star teams before retiring after the 2016 season.
Interestingly, Teixeira wasn’t particularly active in political circles while playing. However, in November 2015, reports indicated that he was part of a fundraising committee for Marco Rubio, a now-former presidential candidate.
Teixeira is the first official candidate to announce a run for the seat in the 21st District, though others, like Bexar County Republican vice-chairman Kyle Sinclair and San Antonio City Councilman Mark White, have shown interest in joining the race.
