After weeks filled with speculation and leaks, the Cuban Baseball and Softball Federation (FCBS) made an official announcement on Thursday, revealing the lineup that will represent the island in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, taking place from March 3 to March 17.
The FCBS, in a statement distributed to state-run media and fully reproduced by the JIT portal, declared that despite the “complexities” of the process, they succeeded in assembling a “competitive” team. This squad features players from both professional circuits and the National Series.
“The Cuban team is set to give their all on the field, in line with the expectations of our people,” the Federation stated.
Challenges of Permissions and Confidentiality
The announcement highlighted that the formation of the team was influenced by deadlines imposed on Cuba due to the necessity of obtaining permits managed by the organizers with the U.S. government, a prerequisite for sending the official invitation.
Subsequently, they also awaited individual approval of permits for players affiliated with Major League Baseball (MLB), a process that started in December and concluded only recently.
Despite last-minute denials, Germán Mesa’s leadership managed to include ten players from the MLB system in the roster, a higher number than in the previous edition.
Yariel Rodríguez's Inclusion Amid Contractual Controversy
The FCBS defended the inclusion of pitcher Yariel Rodríguez, citing his persistent interest in joining the team and his proven talent, in addition to honoring commitments after leaving his contract in Japan.
The Federation also noted that the entire process was governed by confidentiality clauses, which is why no prior information was disclosed.
Preparation: Training in Nicaragua and Exhibitions in Arizona
Cuba's preparation will involve a training base in Nicaragua, where they will play four games across various cities.
Following this, they will head to the United States for two exhibition games in Arizona:
- March 3 vs Kansas City Royals
- March 4 vs Cincinnati Reds
Official Roster of Team Cuba
Catchers (2)
- Andrys Pérez (Cocodrilos de Matanzas/CUB)
- Omar Hernández (Omaha Storm Chasers/USA)
Infielders (7)
- Erisbel Arruebarruena (Cienfuegos/CUB)
- Yiddi Cappe (Pensacola Blue Wahoos/USA)
- Yoan Moncada (Los Angeles Angels/USA)
- Malcom Núñez (Indianapolis Indians/USA)
- Alexei Ramírez (Pinar del Río/CUB)
- Alexander Vargas (Dayton Dragons/USA)
- Yoel Yanqui (Indios del Bóer/NIC)
Outfielders (5)
- Alfredo Despaigne (Granma/CUB)
- Yoelkis Guibert (Algodoneros de Guasave/MEX)
- Ariel Martínez (Nippon Ham/JAP)
- Leonel Moas Jr. (Camagüey/CUB)
- Roel Santos (Bravos de Margarita/VEN)
Pitchers (16)
- Liván Moinelo (Softbank/JAP)
- Raidel Martínez (Yomiuri/JAP)
- Daviel Hurtado (St. Lucie Mets/USA)
- Denny Larrondo (Hillsboro Hops/CUB)
- Yoan López (Águilas Cibaeñas/DOM)
- Randy Martínez (Chunichi/JAP)
- Darién Núñez (Leones del Escogido/DOM)
- Julio Robaina (Algodoneros de Guasave/MEX)
- Osiel Rodríguez (Bravos de León/MEX)
- Yariel Rodríguez (Toronto Blue Jays/USA)
- Luis Miguel Romero Jr. (Leones de Caracas/VEN)
- Pedro Santos (Gigantes de Carolina/PUR)
- Frank Abel Álvarez (Pinar del Río/CUB)
- Emmanuel Chapman (Altoona Curve/USA)
- Josimar Cousín (Rieleros de Aguascalientes/MEX)
- Naykel Cruz (Orioles Black/USA)
Coaching Staff
- Germán Mesa (Manager)
- Noelvis González (Bench Coach)
- Humberto Guevara (Physical Trainer)
- Pedro Luis Lazo (Pitching Coach)
- Jesús Bosmenier (Pitching Coach)
- Omar Linares (Hitting Coach)
- Cecilio Javier Drake (First Base Coach)
- Rafael Muñoz (Third Base Coach)
Bullpen Catchers
- Andy Cosme
- Frank Camilo Morejón
Practice Pitcher
- Yulieski González
Anticipation and Discussions
As with every edition of the World Baseball Classic, the Cuban roster sparks discussions among fans and experts alike, whether about the chosen players or notable absences. Nonetheless, the Federation emphasizes that the team has the “privilege” of representing the Cuban people and aims to compete at the highest level.
Cuban Baseball Team and Permissions
Why did the Cuban team need permits for the World Baseball Classic?
The Cuban team needed permits due to requirements imposed by the organizers with the U.S. government, essential for extending the official invitation to participate in the event.
How many MLB-affiliated players are on the Cuban roster?
The roster includes ten players who are affiliated with the MLB system, which is more than the number included in the previous tournament.
What controversy surrounded Yariel Rodríguez's inclusion?
Yariel Rodríguez's inclusion was contentious due to his contractual issues in Japan. However, the FCBS justified his selection by highlighting his commitment to the team and his outstanding abilities.