Quebec Capitales manager Patrick Scalabrini is rubbing his hands at the idea of betting on Cubans Yordan Manduley and Yoelkis Guibert in anticipation of the next Frontier League season.
“Suddenly, we become a much more unpleasant team to face,” summarized Scalabrini, with his usual humor, when commenting on the hiring of the two players on Tuesday.
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Announced by the organization during the day, the return of Manduley, who has already played four seasons with the club of the Old Capital, from 2016 to 2019, is obviously major while his compatriot has something amusingly intriguing.
“This is very, very big news for us, reacted the manager, in a telephone interview. Manduley is our oldest player, we love him and sometimes we seem to forget how lucky we are to have him. He’s the best shortstop in independent baseball and he’s proud to be with the Capitals.”
The 36-year-old Manduley returns to the Quebec club after recently batting .384 in 59 games with the Sabuesos de Holguin, in his native league.
Quite a rookie!
For his part, Guibert is 27 years old. The outfielder has a .302 overall so far in 2021-22, having played in Cuba and then Mexico.
“Everything suggests that he is going to be a very, very good player in this league, projected Scalabrini, praising Guibert’s speed in passing. He should play in center field and hit at the top of the formation. We must also not forget that he has rookie status, which is very important.
The Frontier League effectively limits the number of players with experience or “veteran” status on each team, hence the importance of having strong rookies.
First game: May 13
Without a doubt, Manduley and Guibert are changing the face of the Capitals, who will hold a short training camp before the team’s first game scheduled for May 13, in Illinois State, against the Thunderbolts. of Windy City. The inaugural game at Stade Canac, in Quebec, will also be played on May 24.
“We are still looking for a little reinforcement on the mound, but our attack could win us several games,” added Scalabrini.
Among the current players of the Capitals, the team relies in particular on four Quebecers, namely Miguel Cienfuegos, David Glaude, Jonathan Lacroix and Marc-Antoine Lebreux. About the Cubans, it should be mentioned that the contracts are signed in good and due form. Approval for their Canadian work permit should follow shortly.
