Baseball players Rafael Viñales and Denis Peña have departed from the Las Tunas team during their stay in Mexico, where they were participating in what is known as the Baseball Champions League. This marks yet another chapter in the ongoing exodus of Cuban baseball talent.
According to a report by specialized journalist Francys Romero on Facebook, both players, who hail from the Las Tunas region, chose not to return to the island. They separated from their team just hours before the scheduled flight back. The delegation was set to return to Cuba today after securing second place in the tournament.
A History of Defections in Cuban Baseball
Viñales, aged 32, has been a staple in the national team over the past decade. He represented Cuba in significant events, including the 2021 Olympic Qualifiers in Miami and the Premier 12 tournament in 2024, establishing himself as one of the country's most reliable catchers, although he played other positions as well.
Meanwhile, 29-year-old Peña had previously attempted to leave Cuba. Between 2015 and 2017, he was in the Dominican Republic seeking a professional contract, which unfortunately did not materialize. He later returned to his homeland to compete in five National Series, representing his province.
Unstoppable Trend of Leaving Cuba
The departure of Viñales and Peña adds to the extensive list of defections impacting Cuban baseball at every level, from youth leagues to professional tournaments abroad. In recent years, numerous players have taken advantage of international tours to remain in various countries, seeking professional opportunities or a life beyond state control.
The Baseball Champions League, organized by the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), served as the latest stage for such a decision, highlighting the disconnect between athletes and the Cuban sports system.
Similar Defections in Other Sports
Shortly before Viñales and Peña's exit, handball players Naomis Mustelier, Islenia Parra, and Nahomi Rodríguez left the Cuban women's handball team after participating in the 2025 Norceca Championship held at the facilities of Mexico's Olympic Committee.
Independent source 14ymedio confirmed that the defection occurred on Thursday, April 10, after morning practice. The three athletes got into a vehicle and left the sports village where the Cuban delegation was staying.
Without a doubt, the poor training conditions, lack of real professional prospects, and state control over athletes' careers severely limit opportunities on the island, leading to increasingly frequent defections during international competitions.
Understanding the Cuban Baseball Exodus
Why are Cuban baseball players leaving the country?
Cuban baseball players often leave the country in search of better professional opportunities and a life free from state control. The restrictive conditions in Cuba, including poor training facilities and limited career prospects, drive many athletes to defect during international tours.
What impact do defections have on Cuban sports?
Defections significantly weaken Cuban sports, as the loss of talented athletes affects national teams' performance and morale. It also underscores the systemic issues within Cuba's sports infrastructure and governance.