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The exodus of young Cuban talent continues to grow, and now three of the most promising names in island baseball are getting ready to showcase their skills to the scouts of the Major Leagues.
The center fielder Olbein Cobo (15 years old) will participate in a showcase on October 17th in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, which will take place at the Ozuna Academy field at 2:00 p.m., reported journalist Francys Romero on his social media.
Regarded as the most complete player in the recent Under-15 championship in Cuba, Cobo posted an impressive offensive line: 33 hits, 2 home runs, 53 bases advanced, 10 stolen bases, a batting average of .541, a slugging percentage of .869, an on-base percentage of .608, and an OPS of 1.477.
Although he was not part of the Cuba U-15 team that competed in the September Pre-World Cup, his absence was due to having left the country months earlier. According to several scouts, his profile fits the category of a "five-tool player," capable of contributing both offensively and defensively as well as on the bases.
Two left-handed Cuban pitchers will also showcase their talent before MLB
According to Romero himself on Facebook, left-handed pitchers César Morales and Cristian Rojas, both members of the Cuba U-18 team, will hold their showcase on October 28 at 10:00 a.m. at the TBT Academy in front of representatives from various Major League Baseball (MLB) organizations.
The two pitchers, recently declared free agents by the MLB Commissioner's Office, are represented by Wasserman and have been eligible to sign since October 4. Both Morales and Rojas have demonstrated significant improvement in their speed, exceeding 90 miles per hour, along with multiple effective pitches and solid control within the strike zone.
These three young baseball players are part of a new generation of talents who have chosen to continue their development outside the Cuban sports system, aiming to make their way into the professional structure of MLB. Each of them represents, to varying degrees, the potential and resilience of Cuban baseball, which continues to export prospects despite internal limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Exodus of Cuban Prospects to MLB
Why are Cuban prospects leaving the island to seek opportunities in MLB?
Cuban prospects are leaving the island due to a lack of professional opportunities, low salaries, and the inability to negotiate independently with foreign franchises. These conditions, along with material shortages and the absence of a solid sports project, drive many young people to emigrate in search of a better future in professional baseball.
Who are the Cuban prospects mentioned who are preparing for showcases before the MLB?
The Cuban prospects mentioned in the news are Olbein Cobo, a 15-year-old center fielder, and left-handed pitchers César Morales and Cristian Rojas. Olbein Cobo will participate in a showcase in Santo Domingo on October 17, while César Morales and Cristian Rojas will have their showcase on October 28.
What characteristics stand out in Cuban prospects seeking to sign with MLB?
Cuban prospects are often young individuals with outstanding baseball skills, such as a pitching velocity exceeding 90 miles per hour, exceptional batting ability, or defensive versatility. For instance, César Morales has demonstrated an impressive balance in the National Series with an ERA of 1.34, while Olbein Cobo is regarded as a "five-tool player."
What role do academies in the Dominican Republic play in the development of Cuban prospects?
The academies in the Dominican Republic provide Cuban prospects with an ideal platform to showcase their talent to MLB scouts. They offer high-performance training and exposure at showcases, making it easier for them to sign with Major League organizations. These academies have become a crucial springboard for young Cuban baseball players seeking a future in professional baseball.
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