The star baseball player Luis Robert Moirán valued his experience with the Cuba team in the V World Baseball Classic in 2023 and stated that he does not plan to participate in the next edition in 2026.
In statements to the specialized journalist Francys Romero during the visit of his Chicago White Sox team to Miami, the outfielder stated that "the Classic was a very nice experience, both personally and athletically. It was a dream I had and thanks to God I was able to fulfill it."
Despite the good feelings and having advanced to the semifinals of the competition, Robert added in an interview published on the social network Facebook: "I have accomplished my dream already and I don't think I will go for 2026".
Luis Robert, Yoan Moncada, also from the White Sox, and other players with professional contracts were criticized by a part of the Cuban exile - including some baseball players - for saying "yes, I agree" to the dictatorship of Havana.
During the island's team participation in the final phase organized at LoanDepot Park stadium in Miami, thousands of people protested against the communist regime.
It is worth remembering that the seats located behind "home plate" during the semifinal match against the United States turned into an improvised stand through which signs against the regime were passed, held interchangeably by the reggaeton singer Ovi, the influencer Alexander Otaola, or the singer "La Diosa".
Facing this situation, the ranger downplayed the treatment by Cuban fans during the series against the Marlins from the city. "This time is different, it's a different environment. I believe, but nothing, the fans are there to say and do what they want. My thing is playing baseball."
The athlete also spoke about the possibility of being transferred to another team. "I am ready. If the team decides to send me to another team, I will go to the other team. But I am not thinking about that," he commented.
In the midst of an extremely challenging season for his team in the Major Leagues, the center fielder stands out as one of the few bright spots, although he missed two months of action due to a hip injury just seven games after Opening Day.
"It was really tough because I worked hard during the preseason. My mindset this year was to demonstrate that I could play without getting injured. And well, it's super frustrating for that to happen to you again," he expressed.
In regard to his recovery, he added: "It's very difficult to come back from an injury, be out for two months without playing, and regain the timing of pitches. It's no secret to anyone that pitches are quite difficult to decipher, but little by little we are improving."
With the goal of reaching the Major Leagues, Robert left Cuba in November 2016, and in May of the following year, the Chicago White Sox officially signed him for a millionaire sum.
He made his debut in the Big Leagues in 2020 when he earned a Gold Glove. However, his great season was the previous one - in 2023 - as he attended the All-Star Game, hit 38 home runs, and won the Silver Bat, among other outstanding statistics.
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