In the midst of the hustle and bustle of an American high school and the cultural shock of starting over, a Cuban teenager has found in baseball his language, his comfort, and his driving force in life.
Cristhian Leyva, originally from Holguín and only 16 years old, left everything behind with his family in search of what was becoming increasingly difficult in Cuba: a real opportunity. He was not just any kid with a glove; he was one of the best in his category, yet he was sidelined from the national team without any explanation.
“When I was 15, I led the league in doubles,” he tells News4JAX. “I was tested, we trained, everything was ready... and in the end, they told me I wasn’t on the team.” In Cuba, talent often isn't enough, and for Cristhian, it was the blow that sparked the beginning of a new journey.
With the frustration of seeing his future cut short by political decisions or favoritism, his parents opted for sacrifice. They crossed borders for a year, traveled through unfamiliar countries, and arrived in Florida with the sole certainty that their son deserved a better life.
Today, settled in Jacksonville and a student at Ribault High School, Cristhian faces a daily life that would be overwhelming for many: a new language, different customs, unfamiliar rules. But he doesn't stop.
“Everything is new to me here, but on the field, I feel at home,” he says.
Without yet mastering English, the young baseball player communicates as best as he can. Google Translate has become his most trusted tool, even during games, when his coach, Rodney Tisdale, sometimes calls for extra time just to ensure they understand each other.
"But you don't need to say much to see their commitment.", comments the coach. "They have work ethic, discipline, and everyone understands that."
Cristhian not only trains hard, but he also excels academically. His teachers describe him as a young man who, despite everything, has managed to integrate impressively quickly. "Knowing that he could shine with his talent gave him more confidence, and now he also puts in effort in class,” explains a teacher.
The respect he has earned goes beyond the field. His teammates appreciate him, support him, and follow him. Without showboating or speeches, he has become a role model.
“He knows he is here for a dream, but also for a debt”, says his coach. “He wants to honor the sacrifice of his family”.
And he says it with a clarity that touches the heart. “My parents gave up everything for me. I want to repay that effort. I want to make it to the Major Leagues for them.”
Between training, studies, and games with a traveling team, Cristhian remains focused. He understands that the journey is long, but he has already learned that giving up is not an option.
His goal is to play college baseball and, one day, wear the uniform of the San Diego Padres, his favorite team. But he also wants to send a message to other young Cubans that it is indeed possible to start over, and that there is a future beyond fear and restrictions.
Baseball, a sport that in Cuba is part of the national soul, has become for Cristhian his new homeland, his adopted language, and the promise that drives him to rise every day.
“Thank you for never letting go of my hand”, they say to their parents. “I am going to make it”.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Exodus of Young Cuban Baseball Players
Why are so many young Cuban baseball players emigrating to the United States?
Many young Cuban baseball players are emigrating in search of better opportunities in professional baseball, as they face economic limitations, a lack of international exposure, and state control over their sports careers in Cuba. These factors, along with the chance to achieve the dream of playing in Major League Baseball (MLB), drive players to leave the island.
How does the exodus of baseball players affect Cuban baseball?
The exodus of baseball players represents a deep crisis for Cuban baseball, as the departure of talent undermines the quality of national competitions and impacts the chances of success on the international stage. This talent drain also reflects structural issues in Cuban sports that must be addressed in order to retain its players.
What challenges do Cuban baseball players face when arriving in the United States?
Upon arriving in the United States, Cuban ballplayers face challenges such as adapting to a new language and culture, integrating into a highly competitive sports system, and overcoming legal and immigration obstacles. Despite these difficulties, many find in baseball a way to integrate and thrive in their new environment.
What role does baseball play in the lives of young Cubans who emigrate?
For young Cubans who emigrate, baseball is much more than a sport; it is a way to find identity, purpose, and a path to success in a new country. In many cases, baseball becomes their "new home" and the primary motivation to face the challenges of starting over.
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