Childhood and Education Journey of Didi Gregorius in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 8, 2026

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Didi Gregorius. A timeline of key moments.

Mariekson Julius "Didi" Gregorius, a Curaçaoan professional baseball shortstop, currently plays for the Algodoneros de Unión Laguna in the Mexican League. He previously had a notable MLB career, playing for the Cincinnati Reds, Arizona Diamondbacks, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies. Gregorius is known for his fielding skills and contributions to the Yankees, where he was a key player for several seasons, filling the shortstop position after Derek Jeter's retirement.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

1955: Antonio Gregorius at Pan American Games

In 1955, Antonio Gregorius, Didi's paternal grandfather, pitched in four games for the Netherlands Antilles at the Pan American Games.

February 18, 1990: Didi Gregorius' Birth

On February 18, 1990, Mariekson Julius "Didi" Gregorius was born in Curaçao.

Others born on this day/year

1995: Family moved to Curaçao

In 1995, the Gregorius family moved from Amsterdam to Curaçao to follow Gregorius Sr.'s baseball career.

2006: Semi-Pro Team Win

In 2006, Didi Gregorius, his brother, and his father played together on a semi-pro team that won its league.

2007: Semi-Pro Team Win

In 2007, Didi Gregorius, his brother, and his father played together on a semi-pro team that won its league.

2009: Adopted Nickname "Didi"

In 2009, Didi Gregorius adopted the nickname "Didi" because his American teammates had difficulty pronouncing his given name, "Mariekson".

2011: Health Issues and Recovery

In 2011, Gregorius experienced health issues including elevated cholesterol, proteins, and hypertension, leading to a kidney malfunction diagnosis. After adopting a vegetarian diet and medication regimen, he returned to the field after two months.

2011: Kidney Malfunction

In 2011, a chronic kidney malfunction hindered Gregorius' rise through the Reds' farm system, causing him to miss two months of the season.

2011: Knighted Under the Order of Orange-Nassau

In 2011, after the Netherlands defeated Cuba in the Baseball World Cup final, Didi Gregorius and his teammates were knighted under the Order of Orange-Nassau, 5th class, granting him the official title "Sir".