Houston Astros star Carlos Correa has shared a chilling account of the harrowing incident where he and his three-year-old son, Kylo, almost drowned in a Minnesota lake during the summer of 2024. The World Series champion, who rejoined the Astros after a stint with the Minnesota Twins, first disclosed the story at a Houston retirement home in December before elaborating in an interview with MLB.com following a Spring Training session this week.
A Family Boat Trip Turns Terrifying
Correa, aged 31, was enjoying a boat outing with his family on Lake Minnetonka when the life-threatening situation unfolded. While swimming without a life jacket, with his young son clinging to his neck, Correa suddenly found himself struggling to stay afloat midway between the shore and the boat. His hamstrings and quadriceps began to cramp severely, and his energy rapidly diminished, leaving him fighting for survival in the water.
A Desperate Prayer and a Buoy
As Correa spotted a buoy floating nearby, his son anxiously asked, "Pappi, are we going to be OK?" Correa reassured Kylo before uttering a desperate prayer: "Lord, save me. I promise you that if you save me from this one, I will serve you and I will serve you forever." He managed to reach the buoy but slipped off, injuring his left hand on the chain while trying to secure a grip. To keep himself and his son above water, he had to continuously switch hands on the buoy, a frantic effort that drained his remaining strength.
A Last-Minute Rescue
With his final breath, Correa yelled toward the boat for assistance. His father-in-law heard the cries and swiftly threw a life jacket, which Correa caught with his pinkie finger, pulling them to safety. Reflecting on the ordeal, Correa stated, "From that moment on, I’m going to serve you. I am going to keep my promise. And from that moment, I’ve been fully devoted." This near-death experience has profoundly deepened his religious faith, which he has always held as a core part of his life.
Renewed Faith and Community Impact
Following the traumatic event, Correa, who has two young sons with his wife Daniella Rodriguez, felt inspired to organize a Bible study at his Houston home during the offseason after his trade to the Astros in July 2025. What began with eight participants quickly grew to 60 people gathering for meals and fellowship. Additionally, he initiated discussions about the Bible and his faith with teammates, leading to passionate conversations in the clubhouse that have strengthened team bonds.
Career Resilience and Performance
The Puerto Rican shortstop, who began his MLB career with the Astros in 2015, had faced injury challenges prior to his return to Houston. In his first season back with the team, he demonstrated resilience by posting a .785 OPS in 51 games, showcasing his enduring talent and determination on the field. This personal and professional journey highlights how the near-drowning incident has not only reshaped his spiritual life but also reinforced his commitment to his family and career.
