Star baseball player Luis Robert Moirán reflected on his experience with the Cuban team in the 2023 World Baseball Classic and confirmed that he does not plan to participate in the next edition in 2026.
In an interview with sports journalist Francys Romero during the visit of his team, the Chicago White Sox, to Miami, the outfielder shared, “The Classic was a very beautiful experience, both personally and athletically. It was a dream I had, and thank God I was able to achieve it.”
Despite the positive feelings and having advanced to the semifinals, Robert added in an interview published on Facebook, "I've fulfilled my dream, and for 2026, I don’t think I will participate."
Luis Robert, along with Yoan Moncada, also from the White Sox, and other players with professional contracts, faced criticism from part of the Cuban exile community—including fellow baseball players—for agreeing to play for the Cuban regime.
During the island team's participation in the final phase organized at LoanDepot Park in Miami, thousands of people protested against the communist regime. Seats located behind home plate during the semifinal game against the United States turned into an impromptu platform for signs against the regime, held by figures like reggaeton artist Ovi, influencer Alexander Otaola, and singer “La Diosa”.
In light of this, the outfielder downplayed the treatment from Cuban fans during the series against the Miami Marlins. “This time it's different; it's a different atmosphere. I think so, but nothing, the fans are there to say and do what they want. My job is to play baseball,” he stated.
Robert also spoke about the possibility of being traded. "I am ready. If the team decides to send me to another team, I will go to the other team. But I'm not thinking about that,” he commented.
In the midst of an extremely challenging season for his team in the Major Leagues, the center fielder stands out as one of the few notable players, although he missed two months of action due to a hip injury just seven games after Opening Day.
"It was really tough because I worked hard in the preseason. My mindset this year was to show that I could play without getting injured. And it's super frustrating that it happened to me again,” he expressed.
Regarding his recovery, he added, "It's very difficult to come back from an injury, to be out for two months and then get back into the timing of the pitches. It's no secret that the pitches are quite difficult to decipher, but little by little, we're improving."
With the goal of reaching the Major Leagues, Robert left Cuba in November 2016, and in May of the following year, the Chicago White Sox officially signed him for a multimillion-dollar contract. He made his debut in the big leagues in 2020, earning a Gold Glove. However, his standout season was the previous one—in 2023—where he attended the All-Star Game, hit 38 home runs, and won the Silver Slugger, among other notable stats.
FAQs about Luis Robert Moirán and the World Baseball Classic
In light of Luis Robert Moirán's decision regarding the 2026 World Baseball Classic, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
Why did Luis Robert Moirán decide not to participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic?
Luis Robert Moirán stated that he has already fulfilled his dream by participating in the 2023 World Baseball Classic and does not plan to take part in the 2026 edition.
What was the reaction of the Cuban community to the participation of professional players in the World Baseball Classic?
Some members of the Cuban exile community and fellow baseball players criticized professional players like Luis Robert for agreeing to represent the Cuban regime.
How has Luis Robert Moirán's performance been in the Major Leagues?
Luis Robert Moirán has had a standout career in the Major Leagues, earning a Gold Glove and a Silver Slugger, and participating in the All-Star Game. However, he has faced challenges with injuries.