The Cuban Baseball and Softball Federation (FCBS) announced today the inclusion of pitcher Armando Dueñas and infielder Cristian Rodríguez in the roster for the VI World Baseball Classic, scheduled for March 5-17 in the United States, Puerto Rico and Japan.
Both athletes fill the vacancies left by pitchers Daviel Hurtado, who is injured, and Naykel Cruz, whose insurance claim was denied, according to a recent report from the same source.
Dueñas, with several stints in professional leagues, will bolster the bullpen and has shown consistent improvement in his handling of his weapons, especially his command of his pitches.
Rodríguez, signed to a Japanese professional baseball team, guarantees coverage at third base and shortstop, while continuing to solidify his hitting.
The Cuban Baseball Federation (FCBS) reiterated its gratitude to Hurtado and Cruz on its social media account for their willingness to play with Team Cuba in the main tournament for national baseball teams.
Part of the Cuban roster announced for the 2026 World Baseball Classic concludes a friendly series with Nicaragua this Friday, which serves as preparation for both teams for the major competition.
The series is on track for a win after the tie in the opening game, and for the farewell game, manager Germán Mesa announced the Pinar del Río native left-hander Liván Moinelo, with proven experience in Japan and called upon to lead the island’s rotation in the Classic.
