The Cuban prospect Cristohfer Pérez, a former member of the Cuba U-15 team, is currently detained in a migration center in the Dominican Republic after trying to return to his home country, following three years of living illegally in the Dominican nation.
The news, confirmed by journalist José Raúl Díaz Barrios, has shaken the Cuban baseball community. "Since that day, he has been in immigration custody... he does not have money to buy another ticket and is waiting for news,” explained the reporter, who has been in direct contact with the young athlete since he was arrested on June 14.
Cristohfer, who left Cuba at just 18 years old in 2022 in pursuit of the dream of signing with a Major League franchise, decided to return to the island after failing to achieve that goal. However, the lack of documents and the non-payment of an immigration fine between 250 and 300 dollars prevented his exit from the country, reported the specialized media Swing Completo, which has also covered the case.
Through a phone borrowed from a visitor, the baseball player sent a reassuring message to those following his case. "All is well, all is calm. I'm here waiting for things to be resolved. I hope to hear news so I can get out of here."
According to information confirmed by Swing Completo, Cristohfer requested voluntary deportation as an alternative to avoid paying the fine and to be able to return to Cuba. Dominican authorities are keeping him in custody while they process the necessary documents.
The story of Cristohfer is also a reflection of many young Cubans who leave the island in search of a sports career abroad, only to encounter legal, economic, or representation barriers.
In his time in Cuba, the native of Pinar del Río shone in the 2022 National Youth Championship, where he batted .387, and was part of the Cuba U-15 team that competed in the World Cup in Panama in 2018.
In addition to his offensive ability, Cristohfer surprised everyone with his uncommon skill to throw with both hands in the outfield, which made him a special figure in Cuban baseball.
Today, far from the stadiums and without institutional support, he awaits news in a detention center with the sole desire to return home.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Arrest of Cuban Baseball Player Cristohfer Pérez
Why was Cristohfer Pérez arrested in the Dominican Republic?
Cristohfer Pérez was detained for attempting to return to Cuba without the necessary immigration documents and for not paying an immigration fine that ranged from 250 to 300 dollars.
What was the reason for Cristohfer Pérez's return to Cuba?
Cristohfer Pérez, after living for three years without legal papers in the Dominican Republic, decided to return to Cuba because he was unable to realize his dream of signing with a Major League franchise. The lack of opportunities and his immigration situation led him to try to return to his home country.
What alternatives does Cristohfer Pérez have to return to Cuba?
Cristohfer Pérez has requested voluntary deportation as an alternative to avoid paying the immigration fine and to be able to return to Cuba, while he waits for the Dominican authorities to process the necessary documents.
How does Cristohfer Pérez's situation reflect the context of the exodus of Cuban baseball players?
The situation of Cristohfer Pérez is a reflection of the massive exodus of Cuban baseball players who leave the island in search of a professional career abroad. Many young individuals face similar legal and economic obstacles, due to the economic crisis and the lack of opportunities in Cuba.
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