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Two talented Cuban baseball players, Yobal Rodríguez and Yoslaniel Hernández, are preparing to take an important step in their careers by signing contracts with Major League organizations on January 15, the start date of the international signing period.
At just 16 years old, right-handed pitcher Rodríguez, from Ciego de Ávila, will sign with the Chicago White Sox, according to journalist Francys Romero on the social media platform Facebook.
Standing at an impressive height of 6.3 feet, the pitcher caught the attention of several scouts with a fastball that currently reaches between 91 and 94 miles per hour, with the potential to hit 98 MPH in the future.
Regarded as one of the most promising "hidden gems" of the 2024-2025 class, Rodríguez left Cuba in 2022 to pursue his dream of reaching MLB. His potential positions him as a future star within the ranks of the White Sox.
On his part, left-handed pitcher Yoslaniel Hernández, a 17-year-old from Matanzas, will join the Pittsburgh Pirates. With a fastball ranging from 91 to 93 MPH and a repertoire of secondary pitches that positions him as a potential starter, Hernández is another Cuban talent poised to make an impact in professional baseball.
Hernández left Cuba in 2024 and has been training under the guidance of Yuan Pino, whose academy has developed nine prospects who will also sign with various MLB organizations during this international period.
The signing of these young baseball players is a testament to the emerging talent that continues to arise in Cuba, despite the challenges. With Rodríguez and Hernández, MLB teams continue to invest in the island's prospects as key assets for the future of the sport.
The upcoming January 15 will be a pivotal date for both players, as they strive to make their mark in a competitive system and follow in the footsteps of other illustrious Cuban names in Major League Baseball.
Frequently Asked Questions About Young Cuban Baseball Players and Their Integration into MLB
Who are Yobal Rodríguez and Yoslaniel Hernández?
Yobal Rodríguez and Yoslaniel Hernández are two young Cuban baseball players ready to sign with Major League organizations. Rodríguez, 16, from Ciego de Ávila, will sign with the Chicago White Sox, while Hernández, 17, from Matanzas, will join the Pittsburgh Pirates.
What is Yobal Rodríguez's potential in the MLB?
Yobal Rodríguez is regarded as one of the most promising hidden prospects of the 2024-2025 class. With a fastball that reaches between 91 and 94 MPH, and the potential to hit 98 MPH, his talent positions him as a future standout within the Chicago White Sox organization.
What stands out about Yoslaniel Hernández as a pitcher?
Yoslaniel Hernández is a left-handed pitcher with a fastball ranging from 91 to 93 MPH and a mix of secondary pitches that positions him as a potential starter. His talent and skills make him a promising prospect for the Pittsburgh Pirates in professional baseball.
Why do young Cuban baseball players seek to sign with MLB?
Young Cuban baseball players are seeking to sign with MLB to advance their careers to the highest level in professional baseball. MLB provides better financial conditions, training opportunities, and the chance to compete in the most prestigious league in the world—a dream for many athletes from the island.
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