What is Xander Bogaerts' nationality? A closer look at his upbringing and how it shaped him as a player

San Diego Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts is an Aruba native. Bogaerts is of Dutch descent because Aruba belongs to the independent Netherlands. The two-time World Series champion (2013, 2018) is one of the few Aruban-born players who have made it to the major leagues.

At the age of 16, Xander was spotted by a Boston Red Sox scout in Aruba. Thereafter, the 31-year-old shortstop was referred to the team's vice president of international scouting. Days later, Bogerts was given a contract by the Red Sox with a $410,000 signing bonus.

"Playoffbound!! Let's do this." - Xander

Scouts rarely come to Aruba. So, when Xander got the opportunity to showcase his talent, he gave it all to deliver his best performance.

Interestingly, it is postulated that Aruba shaped Xander as a player. Although Bogaerts deems it a coincidence, the theory is that players from this island country have better ground ball reactions due to the rugged fields back home.

Xander made his MLB debut on Aug. 20, 2013, with the Boston Red Sox against the San Francisco Giants. After playing in Boston until 2022, he opted out of his Red Sox contract and became a free agent. On Dec. 9, 2022, Bogaerts signed an 11-year, $280 million contract with the San Diego Padres.

Xander Bogaerts played for the Dutch National Team at World Baseball Classics

Kansas City Royals v Boston Red Sox

San Diego Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts played for the Dutch National Team in two World Baseball Classics (2013, and 2017). In 2017, the team finished in fourth place.

"Xander is departing Padres spring training for the World Baseball Classic after today's game. Bogaerts will be playing with Team Netherlands." - 97.3 The Fan

In the 2023 WBC, Xander is once again set to represent his home country.