The land of opportunity is not immune from the global crisis of exploitation. Each year, tens of thousands fall prey to the insidious black-market economy of human trafficking. According to a conservative estimate by the U.S. State Department, 27.6 million people worldwide, including 1.5 million in North America, live an existence of forced labor and sexual servitude, reminding us of the systemic and moral failures plaguing modern society.
This harsh reality is why former Chicago White Sox first baseman Adam LaRoche, a recent guest on the Men’s Journal Everyday Warrior Podcast, retired in 2016 to combat one of the world's greatest evils.
It was a decision guided by faith, family values, and a profound question posed to him years prior.
"A chaplain asked us, 'When you die, what do you want to be remembered for?' then asked, 'Well, wouldn't it make sense to start focusing on [whatever] that is right now?' " says LaRoche. "The way he put it was just so black and white. I've never forgotten it," he adds.
Family Business
Growing up around the family business is a common experience for many children, but for LaRoche, that business wasn’t in a restaurant or retail store but rather on the baseball diamond. The LaRoche family has an impressive history in the sport. Adam's father, David LaRoche, is a two-time All-Star pitcher who played for 13 seasons before retiring in 1983 as a New York Yankee.
Following his father's footsteps, Adam's older brother Andy LaRoche played five seasons as a third baseman for the Toronto Blue Jays before leaving the big leagues in 2013. And even Adam's younger brother, Jeff LaRoche, a left-handed relief pitcher, played six seasons of professional baseball in the minors until 2004.
Drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 2000, Adam played with the team's AAA affiliate before being called up to the majors in 2004. Over the next 12 seasons, he established himself as a solid player, known for his defensive prowess at first base; he even earned a Silver Slugger in 2012.
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Going Undercover
In 2014, LaRoche embarked on a 10-day trip to Southeast Asia where he was opened his eyes to the harrowing world of human trafficking, where innocent lives are treated as commodities.
While in Thailand, LaRoche supported local law enforcement and the counter-human trafficking non-profit Exodus Road by participating in "raid and rescue" missions. Armed with only a hidden camera, LaRoche and a partner from the non-profit worked undercover to infiltrate nearly 50 brothels. His status as an American allowed them unique access, which enabled them to collect vital evidence of abuse and exploitation. He recorded the ages of the children inside and the identities of those behind the illicit operations.
"Americans get offered the youngest girls right away because [those in charge] assume you have lots of money, "LaRoche explains. "We realized we could be effective. We watched what the feds could do with our intel and learned how hard it was to combat [trafficking] without it. "
The reality of what he witnessed in Southeast Asia left an indelible mark on LaRoche. As a father, he couldn't help but see his daughter when he looked at those little girls. "In my mind, I'm picturing my daughter back home and thinking, What if this were her. It hit me hard and messed me up," he admits.
At home, he met with those in the government, non-profits, and the private sector to learn more about the fight against this heinous crime. He quickly learned the problem was prevalent in America, not just Southeast Asia.
"It's the fastest-growing criminal enterprise in our nation and a multi-billion-dollar industry," says LaRoche. Shocked by the prevalence and severity of the trafficking crisis, he was inspired to use his platform to make a difference.
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A Delicate Balance
After Thailand, LaRoche found returning to baseball challenging. "I saw some of the darkest evil imaginable, so I came into spring training thinking, Man, am I going to play a game right now?" Despite his reservations, LaRoche says, "I still planned on playing that season until the whole thing happened with my son." A disagreement with the Chicago White Sox over his 14-year-old son's presence in the clubhouse led to his retirement, shocking the baseball world.
LaRoche's son had played a support role for three years, shining shoes, washing cars, and doing whatever was needed. "Then, going into that season, they changed the policy and upped the age of kids allowed in the clubhouse," explains LaRoche. His decision to retire exemplified the delicate balance between personal values and professional aspirations, a dance that resonates with many.
"This balance was also about knowing I'm here for something bigger than playing baseball, making money, or winning a World Series," LaRoche explains. "And biblically, as a believer…I know it's to love people and to love God. That mindset made my decision easy."
His story reminds us that life is an intricate tapestry of experiences guided by a complex interplay of passion and responsibility. LaRoche's retirement allowed him to prioritize his family and shift his focus to combating human trafficking. His unwavering commitment to these values led to a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment.
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E3 Ranch Foundation
In 2017, Adam and his wife, Jennifer, founded the E3 Ranch Foundation, a non-profit committed to fighting human trafficking, supporting veterans, and providing aid during humanitarian crises.
With a problem as complex and pervasive as human trafficking, the LaRoche family recognized a multifaceted approach was required, including prevention programs, outreach to vulnerable populations, and support for survivors.
More than 300,000 young people in the United States are considered "at risk" of sexual exploitation, with women and children being the most vulnerable. That's why the heart of their mission is using education to prevent trafficking and raise awareness. Working with schools, universities, and other organizations, the team teaches young people to stay alert and how to protect themselves and others.
The Foundation also provides resources and services to help survivors rebuild their lives, including access to safe housing, medical care, and more. They are currently working on Christine's House, a safe house for girls awaiting long-term placement in the Kansas City area; the initiative honors a friend who experienced the horrors of trafficking two decades prior.
Partnering with law enforcement, government agencies, and NGOs, the Foundation helps develop comprehensive strategies to address the root causes and contributing factors of trafficking. They also train first responders to identify victims and conduct rescue missions.
LaRoche is a vocal and influential advocate for greater collaboration and cooperation in the fight against human trafficking. He partners with organizations, such as Operation Underground Railroad, Guardian Group, International Justice Mission, and SERT Ministries to rescue victims and bring traffickers to justice.
Despite the enormity of the issue and the seemingly never-ending cycle of brothels closing and reopening, the LaRoche family remains determined to help those trapped in a brutal industry. Their dedication and perseverance give renewed hope to those who've been silenced.
A Legacy of Hope
The fight against human trafficking demands attention and action, and the E3 Ranch Foundation is leading the way. LaRoche's commitment to the cause has earned him widespread recognition and praise, and his notoriety as a former MLB player has brought increased attention to this global issue.
His journey from the batter's box to the frontlines of the anti-human trafficking movement is a testament to the power of compassion, faith, and determination. By sharing his experiences and leveraging his connections, he galvanizes others to join the fight and mobilizes support for effective organizations.
There's no doubt sports media will honor LaRoche as an accomplished Major League baseball player when he's gone. But that's far different than how history will remember him; his long-term legacy will be a man of strong faith whose sacrifice allowed him to save countless lives.
Now that you’ve heard LaRoche’s story, ask yourself: How do I want to be remembered? Whatever it is, doesn’t it make sense to start focusing on it today?
The Talking Series is a weekly segment that delves deeper into topics discussed by guests on the Men's Journal Everyday Warrior Podcast.
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