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The wait is over, and the consistency of the Cuban César Prieto has been rewarded this Friday with his debut in the Major Leagues after a long and challenging journey of 4 and a half years.
Prieto, who debuted with the St. Louis Cardinals, became the 33rd player born in Cuba to participate in the MLB season, thus matching the island's participation record, reported journalist Francys Romero.
The player from Cienfuegos struck out in his only time at bat.
Romero, who had reported Prieto's debut exclusively, recalled that "the 26-year-old Cuban signed with the Orioles in 2022 after leaving the Cuba national team's training camp in West Palm Beach, Florida, in May 2021."
“He has batted .293 AVG with 44 HR in four seasons of Minor Leagues. A true story of perseverance,” he added.
In 2021, as soon as he arrived on U.S. soil, Prieto left the Cuban national team that competed in the Pre-Olympic Baseball Tournament, held in Florida, from May 31 to June 5. Therefore, he would not be eligible for the upcoming Classic according to the rules of the Cuban Federation, having "defected" from an official delegation.
At that time, he was one of the best talents remaining on the island, but he decided to showcase his abilities in search of a professional contract, which he secured months later with the Baltimore Orioles, a team that sent him to the Cardinals.
Prieto, who was part of the Memphis Redbirds, the Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, remained for four years as one of the Cuban prospects with the most solid track records in Minor Leagues before receiving the call.
Frequently Asked Questions about César Prieto's Major League Debut
How was César Prieto's debut in the Major Leagues?
César Prieto made his Major League debut with the St. Louis Cardinals, becoming the 33rd Cuban player to participate in the MLB season. In his first and only at-bat, Prieto struck out.
What has been César Prieto's journey before his debut in MLB?
Before his debut, César Prieto played in the Minor Leagues for four and a half years, signing with the Baltimore Orioles in 2022 and later being sent to the St. Louis Cardinals. In the Minor Leagues, Prieto posted a batting average of .293 and hit 44 home runs.
Why couldn't César Prieto play in the World Baseball Classic with Cuba?
César Prieto was not eligible for the World Baseball Classic because he abandoned the Cuban national team in 2021, violating the rules of the Cuban Federation by "defecting" from an official delegation. Moreover, Prieto has stated that he has no intention of returning to represent Cuba in international competitions.
What is César Prieto's stance on returning to the Cuba team?
César Prieto has been clear in expressing that he has no intention of returning to the Cuba team. He has stated that, even if they were to call him, his response would be negative. This is due to his decision to seek professional opportunities outside the island.
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