Two new baseball talents have recently left Cuba and settled in the Dominican Republic, where they aspire to sign contracts with a Major League Baseball organization in the future. William Alejandro Álvarez, 14, and Lázaro Herrera Jr., 13, are already training at the G&T Baseball Academy in Punta Cana, aiming for that goal, as reported by journalist Francys Romero on his website Béisbol FR.
Hailing from Santa Clara, Villa Clara, Álvarez was part of the Cuba Sub-15 team that competed in the Premundial in the Dominican Republic in March. According to Romero's records, he is the seventh member of that team to leave the country in pursuit of entering professional leagues.
In his short career, this young baseball promise has also participated in the 2022 Little League tournament in the Dominican Republic, where his team from Santa Clara was one win away from qualifying for the Little League in the United States. Additionally, Álvarez had a .350 batting average in the final of the 2024 National Sub-15 Championship, with two doubles, one triple, three RBIs, and three walks in 24 plate appearances (20-7).
Romero considers him "a very selective and mature hitter for his age with an excellent physique and ability to hit to all parts of the field," adding that "defensively, he can play all infield positions and in the outfield." Álvarez has also pitched.
The teenager will be eligible to sign a professional contract during the international signing period starting on January 15, 2027.
Meanwhile, rookie Lázaro Herrera Jr. hit .286/.423/.571 with three doubles and one home run in the National Sub-15 Championship, and in the tournament final, he showcased an offensive line of .375/.565/.500 in 23 at-bats and 39 innings as a first baseman.
Herrera Jr. carries the name of his talented father, who played for Matanzas in the National Series for 16 seasons and excelled "for his batting power and defense at catcher and first base." The Matanzas catcher was suspended for a year for attempting to leave the country illegally in 2014.
His son’s best tool is his batting, affirmed Romero, adding his "ability to consistently make contact with the ball." Following in his father's footsteps, the young player "now projects to be a power hitter with the potential to defend at catcher, first base, and the outfield," highlighted the Cuban journalist.
Herrera Jr. will turn 14 in November and will be eligible to sign with a franchise starting January 15, 2028.
Romero pointed out that "the current international prospect market values players aged 13 to 16 more than ever. That is the priority and competition among MLB organizations right now."
Earlier this week, news broke of another young Cuban baseball prospect, Jonathan Raúl Delgado, who left the country. The 15-year-old switch-hitter, son and grandson of two prominent players from Sancti Spíritus, also emigrated to the Dominican Republic with his mother, aiming to sign a contract with the Major Leagues in the future.
Numerous Cuban baseball players have left the country in recent years, seeking to fulfill their dream of playing in the Major Leagues.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Baseball Talent Migration
Below are some common questions and answers regarding the recent trend of young Cuban baseball talents leaving the country to pursue careers in Major League Baseball.
Why are young Cuban baseball players leaving the country?
Many young Cuban baseball players are leaving to pursue opportunities in Major League Baseball, which offers better professional prospects and financial rewards compared to playing in Cuba.
What is the significance of training in the Dominican Republic?
The Dominican Republic is a hotspot for baseball training and scouting. Many MLB scouts regularly visit academies in the country, making it an ideal location for young talents to showcase their skills.
How does age affect eligibility for signing with an MLB team?
MLB has specific age requirements for international signings. Players must be at least 16 years old to sign a professional contract, which is why young talents often prepare and train until they reach the eligible age.
What are the challenges faced by young Cuban players in their journey to MLB?
Young Cuban players face numerous challenges, including leaving their families, adapting to new cultures, and the uncertainty of securing a contract with an MLB team. Additionally, they often have to navigate complex immigration and legal issues.