CubaHeadlines

Cuban and U.S. Veteran Baseball Teams to Face Off in Friendly Matches at Havana's Latinoamericano Stadium

Friday, January 10, 2025 by Amelia Soto

Cuban and U.S. Veteran Baseball Teams to Face Off in Friendly Matches at Havana's Latinoamericano Stadium
Baseball - Image from © Cubadebate

The Cuban Baseball Federation has revealed plans for an exciting series of friendly games between veteran baseball teams from Cuba and the United States. The showdown is set to take place at the historic Latinoamericano Stadium in Havana.

According to the state-run website Cubadebate, these matches are scheduled for Saturday, January 11, and Sunday, January 12, starting at 10:00 a.m. Esteemed players from Cuban baseball will clash with members of the U.S. team Expo Maine in these anticipated games.

The Cuban roster will primarily comprise players who recently participated in an exhibition game at the Palmar de Junco Stadium in Matanzas. This event celebrated the anniversary of the first documented baseball game in Cuba.

Among the legendary figures representing the Cuban team are Frank Camilo Morejón, Antonio Scull, Alexander Malleta, Rey Vicente Anglada, Joyse Sú, Ernesto Sánchez, Yoandry Urgelles Cobas, Irakly Chirino, Leonardo Castrazana, Ernesto Morilla, José Antonio Soto, Miguel Ángel Yanes, and Andrés Moya. The pitching lineup features Cuban talent such as Lázaro De La Torre, Wilber Pérez, Frank Javier Menéndez, Rene Espín, Jorge Fumero, Jorge L. Váldez, and Lázaro Valle.

Esteemed former players like Pedro Medina, Rodolfo Puente, Antonio Acea, Heriberto Corbea, and José Elosegui will be at the helm of the hosting team.

These friendly encounters come amidst a significant decline in Cuban baseball, a sport deeply affected by a widespread crisis, player exodus, deteriorating stadiums, and often the inability to host games due to fuel shortages.

Understanding the Decline of Cuban Baseball

Why is Cuban baseball experiencing a decline?

Cuban baseball is facing challenges due to a general crisis in sports, the exodus of players seeking opportunities abroad, deteriorating infrastructure, and logistical issues like fuel shortages.

Who are some of the notable Cuban players participating in the friendly matches?

Notable players include Frank Camilo Morejón, Antonio Scull, Alexander Malleta, and Rey Vicente Anglada, among others.

© CubaHeadlines 2025