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Two Promising Cuban Pitchers Secure Deals with Major League Teams

Monday, December 16, 2024 by Michael Hernandez

Two Promising Cuban Pitchers Secure Deals with Major League Teams
Jan Ewing Cabrera (left) and Yosniel Menéndez (right) - Image © Facebook/Francys Romero

Two emerging talents from Cuban baseball have solidified their futures in Major League Baseball (MLB) by signing contracts with major league organizations: Jan Ewing Cabrera, aged 19, and Yosniel Menéndez, aged 17.

According to journalist Francys Romero via Facebook, Cabrera, a pitcher from Villa Clara and a member of the Cuba Under-18 team in the 2022 Pan-American Championship, finalized his deal with the St. Louis Cardinals after leaving Cuba in May. Represented by Wasserman, the tall athlete received a signing bonus of $250,000. Joining the MLB system marks a crucial step in establishing his professional baseball career.

A Rising Star from Matanzas

Yosniel Menéndez, hailing from Matanzas, officially signed with the Tampa Bay Rays, securing a $200,000 bonus, as reported by the same journalist. Trained by the renowned Ray Castillo Academy, Menéndez is an imposing right-handed pitcher standing 6’4” and weighing 205 pounds, with a fastball clocking in between 94 and 96 mph. A former member of the Cuba Under-15 team in 2022, his talent has earned him the fourth spot on the list of top U-15 prospects in Cuba for 2023.

Cuban Baseball's Influence Grows

With this signing, Menéndez becomes the 26th Cuban player to be contracted during the current 2023-2024 signing period, highlighting the increasing impact of Cuban players on the international baseball scene. Both young athletes represent the emerging talent from Cuba, carrying the hope of excelling in the Major Leagues and serving as ambassadors of Cuban baseball at the highest level of competition.

FAQs on Cuban Baseball Talents in MLB

Who are the Cuban pitchers signing with MLB teams?

Jan Ewing Cabrera and Yosniel Menéndez are the Cuban pitchers recently signing contracts with MLB teams.

Which MLB teams did Cabrera and Menéndez sign with?

Jan Ewing Cabrera signed with the St. Louis Cardinals, while Yosniel Menéndez signed with the Tampa Bay Rays.

What are the signing bonuses for these Cuban players?

Cabrera received a $250,000 signing bonus, and Menéndez was awarded a $200,000 bonus.

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