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The Cuban Baseball Federation (FCB) continues its strategy of recruiting players signed in foreign professional leagues to strengthen the national team in preparation for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
According to an exclusive report by journalist Francys Romero on his Facebook account, former Major League pitcher Darién Núñez has been contacted and is willing to don the Cuba jersey in the upcoming Classic.
Núñez, a 32-year-old left-handed player, had a brief but notable stint in MLB with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2021, in addition to a vast career in Minor Leagues, winter leagues, and the Mexican Baseball League, where he recently signed with the Algodoneros de Unión Laguna.
His experience and repertoire make him a top choice for the Cuban bullpen, especially due to his control and strikeout ability—traits that have served as his calling card in the various venues where he has pitched.
A team in the making with MLB stars
The FCB has managed to open channels of dialogue with several high-profile players competing in Major Leagues, something unimaginable years ago. Names like Andy Pagés (Los Angeles Dodgers) and Andy Ibáñez (Detroit Tigers) have already given their "yes" to join the project, with the goal of enhancing the competitiveness of the Cuban national team in international tournaments.
This momentum comes after Cuba's performance in 2023, when the team reached the semifinals, marking their best showing in over a decade, which has renewed expectations for the upcoming tournament.
However, other well-known figures have clearly stated otherwise, such as Aroldis Chapman (Boston Red Sox), Raisel Iglesias (Atlanta Braves), and Adrián Morejón (San Diego Padres).
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cuban Baseball Team in the 2026 World Classic
Who is Darién Núñez and what is his role in the Cuba team for the 2026 World Baseball Classic?
Darién Núñez is a former Major League pitcher who played with the Los Angeles Dodgers and has been contacted by the Cuban Baseball Federation to be part of the national team in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. His experience in MLB and his ability for control and strikeouts make him a valuable addition to the Cuban bullpen.
Which other MLB players have confirmed their participation with Cuba in the World Baseball Classic?
Players like Andy Pagés from the Los Angeles Dodgers and Andy Ibáñez from the Detroit Tigers have confirmed their participation with the Cuban team. These players aim to enhance the competitiveness of the national selection in the international tournament.
Why do some Cuban players decline the invitation to play with the national team in the World Baseball Classic?
Some Cuban players, such as Aroldis Chapman and César Prieto, have declined to play for the Cuban team due to historical tensions with the Cuban regime. Political differences and the desire not to represent the communist government are key factors in their decisions.
How is the 2026 World Baseball Classic structured, and what challenges will Cuba face?
The 2026 World Baseball Classic will feature 20 teams divided into four groups. Cuba is in Group A along with Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, and Colombia. This group is considered the "group of death" due to the high competitiveness of the teams, which presents a significant challenge for Cuba to advance to the next stage of the tournament.
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