Cuba’s Leñadores de Las Tunas Set Sights on Americas Baseball Series Glory
The Cuban baseball landscape is abuzz with anticipation as the leñadores de Las Tunas prepare to represent the island nation in the inaugural Americas Baseball Series. This prestigious tournament, organized by the newly formed Baseball Association of the Americas, will see the champions from Panama, Colombia, Curaçao, Argentina, Nicaragua, and Cuba clash on the diamond in Nicaragua from January 23rd to 31st.The Leñadores, bolstered by a formidable roster of 27 players, are determined to make a statement on the international stage. Manager abeicy Pantoja has assembled a potent mix of seasoned veterans and exciting young talent, creating a team capable of challenging for the championship.
Among the notable additions to the squad are catcher Nelson Batista and infielder Yordan Manduley from Holguín, outfielder and national team member Yoelquis Guibert from Santiago de Cuba, and hitter Guillermo Avilés from Granma. These reinforcements join a core group led by established stars like Yosvani Alarcón and Rafael Viñales, forming a formidable offensive unit.
The pitching staff is equally impressive, featuring a number of experienced arms with international pedigree. Yoannis Yera (Matanzas), Geonel Gutiérrez (Artemisa), Raymond Figueredo and Andy Vargas (Industriales) all boast experience in the Premier 12 tournament, while Dariel Góngora (Camagüey), Frank herrera (Industriales), and Danni Betancourt (Santiago de Cuba) add further depth and quality.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the Leñadores’ selection is the inclusion of Danel castro. A true legend of Cuban baseball, Castro holds the record for most hits in the history of the sport with an astounding 2,502. Despite announcing his retirement after an illustrious 30-season career, Castro has answered the call to duty, bringing his invaluable experience and leadership to this historic event.
The Cuban public is eagerly awaiting the Leñadores’ debut on January 24th against Nicaragua at the Roberto Clemente Stadium in Masaya. Expectations are high, and the team is determined to not only compete but to raise the Cuban flag triumphantly at the conclusion of the tournament.
Key Roster Highlights:
Catchers: yosvani Alarcón, rafael Viñales, Nelson Batista
Infielders: Yudier Rondón, Roberto Baldoquín, Yordanis Alarcón, Jean Baldoquín, Yunior Otero, Yordan Manduley, Danel Castro, Guillermo Avilés
Outfielders: Denis Peña, Yunieski Larduet, Héctor Castillo, Yoelquis guibert
Pitchers: Eliander Bravo, Alejandro Meneses, Alberto P. Civil, Kenier Ferraz, Rodolfo Díaz, Raymond Figueredo, Andy Vargas, Geonel Gutiérrez, Dariel Góngora, Yoannis Yera, Frank Herrera, danni Betancourt
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