Despite how incredible it may seem, the National Baseball Commission in Cuba has once again shown that improvisation, authoritarianism, and abuse continue to dictate the fate of this sport on the island.
This time, the target of his misconduct has been the veteran pitcher from Pinar del Río, Erly Casanova, who has been sanctioned with one year unable to participate in any official tournaments of Cuban baseball, according to the report by journalist Ernesto Amaya Esquivel on the social network Facebook.
What’s the reason? He managed his contract with Parma in Italy on his own, without going through the Cuban Federation. This, it seems, is still unforgivable for those who control baseball from offices increasingly distant from the field, the communicator stated.
He also explained that Erly, like many others, has played abroad without the federation's mediation on numerous occasions. However, this time they decided to make him an "example" to instill fear in others. They did so without even formally notifying him. He has neither signed a sanction nor has the INDER in Pinar del Río or the National Commission communicated anything officially. The punishment has been, quite literally, silent and cowardly.
This sanction, besides being unfair, comes at a critical moment: baseball in Cuba is struggling and needs to unite rather than divide. While other players are being signed on their own without facing any punishment—some even called up to the Cuba national team without having played—Casanova pays the price for being upright, committed, and silent.
This is a player who has not only demonstrated professionalism both domestically and abroad but also raises his two children on his own, has even pitched amid family struggles, and has never been involved in a scandal. Still, he is punished as if he were a traitor. Because in Cuba, it seems, the issue is not the action itself, but rather who is allowed to take it.
Amaya makes it clear that all of this occurs under the leadership of Juan Reinaldo Pérez Pardo, president of the Cuban Baseball Federation, whose administration is as unpopular as it is inexplicable.
He also came to a conclusion: With this new setback, it is very likely that Erly Casanova will never wear a uniform in Cuban baseball again. What is regrettable is not just that, but that baseball in Cuba continues to lose prominent figures, prestige, and credibility, while a governing body makes decisions behind the backs of its main players and fans.
Baseball in Cuba is not in crisis due to a lack of talent, but rather because of an excess of mediocrity within its power structures. “It no longer seems like an institution: it feels like a small or medium-sized enterprise with owners,” concluded Amaya Esquivel.
Frequently Asked Questions about the sanction on Erly Casanova and the crisis of Cuban baseball
Why was Erly Casanova sanctioned by the National Baseball Commission in Cuba?
Erly Casanova was sanctioned for managing his contract with Parma in Italy without the mediation of the Cuban Federation. This action, which other players have taken without facing penalties, was used to set an "example" and deter other athletes from acting independently.
What are the criticisms of the management of the Cuban Baseball Federation?
The management of the Cuban Baseball Federation is criticized for being authoritarian and for making decisions without transparency or adequate communication. The recent sanction against Erly Casanova and the censorship of Omar Ajete are examples of the lack of freedom of expression and the little regard for the athletes.
What is the impact of sanctions and defections on Cuban baseball?
The sanctions and defections are weakening Cuban baseball, which is already facing a crisis due to the brain drain and lack of adequate infrastructure. These issues reflect a disconnection between the players and the state sports system, leading more athletes to seek opportunities abroad.
What challenges does Cuban baseball face in the current context?
Cuban baseball faces challenges such as the exodus of talent, a lack of international results, and a lack of transparency in economic management. These issues require a deep restructuring and a change in the mindset and strategies of those who lead sports in Cuba.
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