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The right-handed pitcher Pedro de Jesús Castillo recently left Cuba heading to the Dominican Republic, where he hopes to prepare and eventually sign with a Major League (MLB) organization in the future, reported journalist Francys Romero.
The communicator highlighted on his social media that Castillo, hailing from Granma, stood out in the U-15 Pre-World Championship, where he was the fastest pitcher on the Cuba team, reaching a fastball speed of 88 miles per hour, a remarkable figure for his category.
Growing exodus of youth talent
With Castillo's departure, seven players have now left the island out of the 20 athletes who qualified for the Under-15 World Cup in 2026.
This movement is part of a sustained trend in which young Cuban prospects choose to continue their development in academies in the Dominican Republic, a common step to seek professional contracts with MLB franchises.
The departure of Castillo strengthens the wave of young talents seeking opportunities outside the state sports system, in the context of a growing migration of baseball players from lower categories abroad.
Wave towards the Dominican Republic
In the last week, it was reported that three Cuban prospects arrived in the Dominican Republic: Carlos Sarduy, a left-handed pitcher noted for his development potential; Cristian Aguilera, a left fielder regarded as one of the best bats of his generation; and Damián Díaz, a second baseman with a solid projection for professionalism.
Additionally, José Muñiz and Cristopher García are already in that country where they will begin the process of signing with Major League organizations, according to insider Romero.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Exodus of Cuban Prospects to MLB
Why are Cuban prospects seeking opportunities in the Dominican Republic to sign with MLB?
Cuban prospects are seeking opportunities in the Dominican Republic due to the limitations of the Cuban sports system, which include a shortage of material resources, lack of international competitions, and the inability to negotiate independently with foreign franchises. The Dominican Republic offers specialized academies and a more accessible platform for being scouted by MLB scouts.
Who is Pedro de Jesús Castillo and what is his outlook in baseball?
Pedro de Jesús Castillo is a young right-handed pitcher from Granma, Cuba. He stood out as the fastest pitcher on the Cuba team at the Under-15 Pre-World Cup, reaching a fastball of 88 miles per hour. His departure from Cuba to the Dominican Republic is part of his aspiration to sign with a Major League organization in the future.
What impact does the exodus of Cuban baseball players have on the sport in the island?
The exodus of Cuban baseball players has significantly weakened the quality of the National Series, which constantly loses its best prospects before they can establish themselves in Cuban baseball. This phenomenon also reflects a crisis in the country's sports system, where professional opportunities are scarce.
What other Cuban prospects have recently emigrated in search of a future in MLB?
Recently, several Cuban prospects have emigrated, including José Muñiz, Cristian Aguilera, Damián Díaz, Carlos Sarduy, and Cristopher García. These young individuals are seeking to develop in academies in the Dominican Republic to sign with Major League organizations, following a growing trend of talent leaving Cuba in search of better professional opportunities.
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