Cuba in the Premier12: Calendar, games, scores, roster and players

Cuba’s national baseball team is geared up to comPete in the 2024 WBSC Premier12, with high hopes pinned on their mix of experienced international stars and promising young talent. Led by team captain Alfredo Despaigne, a decorated veteran with four Japan Series titles and a storied international career, the Cuban squad is expected to deliver intense comPetition in Group B.

Roster Highlights

The team’s lineup features some major names. Yoan Moncada, who has amassed over 740 Games in Major League Baseball, stands out as the marquee player. Joining him are other notables like shortstop Erisbel Arruebarruena, who brings MLB experience, and versatile catcher Ariel Martínez, who recently hit 13 home runs in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league.

The Cuban pitching staff, meanwhile, is headlined by standout NPB talents. Liván Moinelo, known for his prowess with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, and Chunichi Dragons closer Raidel Martínez provide a formidable one-two punch out of the bullpen. Manager Armando Johnson has a support staff rich in experience, featuring Cuban baseball legends such as Germán Mesa and Pedro Lazo.

Complete Roster

Full Schedule for Cuba in Group B

Cuba will face some of the toughest teams in Group B, including world No. 1 Japan and a strong Korean squad. To make it to the next stage, they’ll need consistent performances from their seasoned players and an extra push from rising talents.