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The left-handed Cuban from Hialeah Néstor Cortés Jr. revealed that the Cuban Federation has not contacted him to participate in the upcoming World Baseball Classic and said he "feels undecided" about a possible call-up.
"I haven't been contacted until now. For the moment, I feel a bit uncertain; I'm too focused on getting healthy. I believe that even if they called me, it would still be a difficult decision because I want to concentrate on baseball here (MLB)," said the left-handed pitcher interviewed this Saturday by the site Pelota Cubana.
"I want to be healthy, I want to improve my family situation, and advance my career. Even if I'm healthy, I don't want to jeopardize the upcoming season. I think this time I'm going to stay out without being called, or even if I'm called, I want to focus on my work here in the United States," he added
Cortés, visiting Miami with the Milwaukee Brewers, expressed that he is happy to return to his hometown.
"I feel great. Every time I come to Miami, even if it's just for a day, I try to see as much family and friends as I can. I've been to Miami three times during the season when I’m playing, and I stay at my parents' house. Yesterday was my dad's birthday; we were at home with family and friends. It's always a good time, I make the most of it, and I love being here in Miami," he commented.
Cuba has been placed in Group A of the VI World Baseball Classic, which will take place in March 2026, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in what many experts already label as "the group of death." The rivals in the group will be: Puerto Rico (host and favorite), Canada, Panama, Colombia.
Last month, it was announced that the star former shortstop and figure close to the regime, Germán Mesa, was officially appointed as the director of the Cuba baseball team heading to the World Baseball Classic 2026.
Among their main responsibilities will be to contact professional Cuban players —both in Cuba and abroad— based on a prior diagnosis conducted by the Federation, as well as to define the training system and the critical path towards various international tournaments.
Some, like César Prieto, have already indicated their refusal or, like Aroldis Chapman, have expressed their willingness to play under different flags. Others, such as Andy Pagés and Yariel Rodríguez, have shown their willingness to participate.
Frequently Asked Questions about Néstor Cortés Jr. and the 2026 World Baseball Classic
Why does Néstor Cortés Jr. feel uncertain about playing for Cuba in the World Baseball Classic?
Néstor Cortés Jr. feels uncertain due to his focus on his health and his career in MLB with the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite not having been contacted by the Cuban Federation, Cortés expressed that his priority is to stay healthy and concentrate on his performance in the Major Leagues, which could influence his decision to participate in the World Classic.
What is the current situation of other Cuban players regarding the 2026 World Baseball Classic?
The situation is diverse: while players like César Prieto have declined to participate with Cuba, others such as Aroldis Chapman have considered offers from other countries. Yariel Rodríguez and Andy Pagés have expressed interest in playing for Cuba, reflecting a variety of positions among Cuban players in exile regarding the 2026 event.
What challenges does Cuba face in the 2026 World Baseball Classic?
Cuba will face an extremely competitive first round known as “the bracket of death” in Group A, which will take place in San Juan, Puerto Rico. It will compete against strong teams such as Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, and Colombia, all with high-level players from the MLB and other leagues. Additionally, the challenge includes the need to obtain U.S. visas to enter Puerto Rico, which has been an obstacle in the past.
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