Outfielder Raico Santos, a notable 30-year-old Cuban player, recently left the island to settle in Mexico, where he will continue his career in professional baseball, according to journalist Francys Romero.
On the social media platform Facebook, the communicator stated that Santos will seek a contract without the support of government entities from the largest of the Antilles, after adding several interesting details to his sports resume.
The versatile player represented his homeland in international competitions such as the 2021 Pan American Olympic Qualifier held in South Florida, and he has experience in both the Mexican Baseball League and the Pacific League, where he played during the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
In the latest National Series (2024), the outfielder shone as one of the best hitters, achieving an average of .394, which placed him fourth among the batting leaders.
Additionally, he made a significant contribution to the success of the Alazanes de Granma with seven home runs, 40 runs batted in, and an impressive discipline at the plate, striking out only eight times in 188 at-bats.
Santos's move to Mexico reinforces the trend of Cuban baseball players (and athletes) seeking greater opportunities in foreign leagues, leaving behind the limitations of Cuban baseball.
In recent years, several players from the island have settled in Mexico, while others, particularly the younger ones, choose the Dominican Republic as their first destination before seeking to sign with a Major League team.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Emigration of Cuban Baseball Players
Why did Raico Santos decide to leave Cuba?
Raico Santos decided to leave Cuba in search of greater opportunities in professional baseball in Mexico, without the support of Cuban government entities. This decision is part of a growing trend among Cuban baseball players seeking better athletic and personal conditions outside the island.
What has been Raico Santos's performance in Cuban baseball?
Raico Santos has had an outstanding performance in Cuban baseball, being one of the best hitters in the recent National Series with an average of .394. He significantly contributed to the success of the Alazanes de Granma with seven home runs and 40 RBIs, in addition to his admirable plate discipline.
What does the emigration of Cuban athletes to foreign leagues reflect?
The emigration of Cuban athletes reflects their pursuit of better sporting and personal opportunities that they cannot find in their home country. This trend highlights the limitations of the Cuban sports system and the athletes' desire to advance their careers in international leagues.
What other baseball players have recently left Cuba in search of opportunities abroad?
In addition to Raico Santos, other players such as Enyer Fernández, Ariel Pestano Jr., Ediel Ponce, and Jonathan Raúl Delgado have recently left Cuba. These movements are part of a larger exodus of young talents seeking to advance their careers in international professional baseball.
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