Known for his impressive skill set, including control and speed, Lázaro Garro was a left-handed pitcher who hailed from Matanzas, born in September 1973. Throughout his career, Garro participated in 19 National Series, establishing himself as a key player for the Matanzas team.
Reflecting on nearly two decades spent on the country's baseball fields, Garro recounts numerous cherished memories and anecdotes. "Yes, Julita, I played 19 seasons. I made my debut with the Citricultores team in the 1989-90 Series. I went straight from the 15-16 age category to the National League. My coach, Tomás Soto, chose me to start the first game of the Series against Henequeneros. You can imagine the nerves and emotions I felt, and I ended up overwhelmed in that very first inning."
Another challenging moment came when he faced the formidable Pinar del Río lineup, including Omar Linares, Luis Giraldo Casanova, and Fernando Hernández, resulting in three consecutive walks. “I was mortified!” he recalls with a laugh. Playing as a reinforcement for Santiago de Cuba, he experienced another unforgettable moment. During the final against Pinar, Linares hit a home run to tie the game, resulting in Garro’s substitution. As he walked off the mound, the crowd chanted, "Garro, Santiago loves you!" which deeply moved him.
Current Role and Future Prospects
Today, one of Cuba's finest left-handers is involved with the Cocodrilos team, under the guidance of Armando Ferrer, working as a pitching coach. "I enjoy teaching. There are promising prospects, but when they reach their potential, most leave to seek better opportunities. Imagine that!" he shares, noting the exodus of talent to other countries.
Garro highlights Roilan Averoff, a 20-year-old right-hander, as a significant prospect. "In his second year, Averoff showed great progress and met all expectations. Where is he now? In the Dominican Republic, like many other Cubans dreaming of playing in the Major Leagues. Those who can't make it there head to Asian leagues or to countries like Mexico, Venezuela, or Nicaragua."
Comparing Eras and the Talent Exodus
Reflecting on the state of baseball, Garro reminisces about his era, emphasizing the passion and quality that defined Cuban baseball. "During my time, baseball was loved and lived for. Quality and professionalism were abundant, a stark contrast to today's standards." He attributes the current talent exodus to the lack of opportunities and poor conditions, noting that players now have their sights set on playing abroad.
Garro candidly expresses his frustrations with the current state of Cuban baseball. "Stadiums are deteriorating, and young talents realize that staying here is futile. I played 19 seasons and... nothing! If it weren't for Mandy Ferrer including me in his coaching staff, no one would remember Garro."
Fond Memories and Unfulfilled Promises
In a career spanning 19 seasons, Garro achieved 90 wins against 109 losses with Matanzas, a team that rarely reached top positions. He saved 22 games, appeared in 380, maintained an ERA of 4.63, and struck out 732 batters over 1,640 and one-third innings. He retired from active baseball in the 2007-2008 season.
Despite his achievements, Garro feels neglected and forgotten by the system. "We gave everything, yet it's as if we don't exist. No one helps us. I can't even finish my house in Itabo," he laments, pointing out the lack of support for former players.
An Ideal Team Cuba
When asked to form an ideal Team Cuba, Garro finds it challenging due to the wealth of talent in Cuban baseball history. "Our baseball had many great players. I follow those playing abroad, especially in the Major Leagues, and I am proud of them all," he says, singling out players like Adolis García, Randy Arozarena, and Yordan Álvarez.
Garro's ideal team includes legends such as Juan Castro, Antonio Muñoz, Omar Linares, and Víctor Mesa, among others. "It's difficult to choose one for each position; there was so much talent," he concludes.
Challenges in Modern Baseball
Garro acknowledges the changes in baseball, with new technologies and techniques, but remains skeptical. "Baseball is still about outs and runs. The talk of ball rotation isn’t new; my coaches mentioned it during my training." He criticizes the lack of academies and resources for developing young talents, citing the need for proper facilities and training time.
Sharing anecdotes from his career, Garro fondly recalls striking out Víctor Mesa and earning the nickname "the on-call doctor" for his clutch performances. He cherishes his family life, despite feeling professionally unfulfilled. "I just want help to finish my house in Itabo. Even that is too much to ask," he says, expressing disappointment with the lack of recognition for his contributions to Cuban baseball.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lázaro Garro and Cuban Baseball
What made Lázaro Garro a notable pitcher in Cuban baseball?
Lázaro Garro was known for his impressive pitching skills, including control and speed. He played 19 National Series, achieving notable success with the Matanzas team.
Why are Cuban baseball players leaving the country?
Many Cuban players seek better opportunities abroad due to poor conditions and lack of support within Cuba. Playing in international leagues offers them the chance to improve their careers and support their families.
How does Lázaro Garro view the current state of Cuban baseball?
Garro is critical of the current state, lamenting the lack of passion and quality that once defined Cuban baseball. He points to deteriorating conditions and the exodus of young talent as major issues.