Cuban prospect Ernesto Martínez Jr. will represent France in the next March Pre-Classic in the American town of Tucson, Arizona. Ernesto Wilson will return to these tournaments after making his debut in 2016, at the age of 16, with the French senior team, a consummate act sui-generis by doing so with his father (also in the role of player) Ernesto Martínez for the first time in the history.
Now the 20-year-old infielder and outfielder is a different player. With muscle mass and power that challenge any pitcher, Martínez belongs to the Milwaukee Brewers organization and is expected to reach the advanced Class-A level in 2020.
"I feel very happy since I haven't represented France in this event for four years. The rest is known that I am going to meet old teammates and I will have Bruce Bochy as my manager," the left-handed hitter told CiberCuba.
The legendary Bruce Bochy is remembered for winning three World Series (2010, 2012 and 2014) and to the surprise of many he will take the reins of France in the March tournament.
With the incorporation of Martínez Jr. and other experienced players such as Alen Hanson, as well as the Cubans Andy Paz (catcher) and Leo Céspedes (right-handed pitcher), the French will seek to qualify for the V World Baseball Classic in 2021. In the group of Tucson, Arizona, will compete with the Czech Republic, Great Britain, Pakistan, Panama and Spain. The first two will be included in the party.
"The team is at a higher level of competitiveness and professionalism than in recent years and I believe that this way we can discuss the group title," he adds.
For 2020, the Holguín-born and French nationalized player will seek to approach the advanced Class-A level. Martínez signed in 2017 with the Brewers.
"In the Minor Leagues I hope to finish in the advanced and start the next year in Double-A to cover the path to the Major Leagues."
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