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The Cuba team faced another significant absence ahead of the 2026 World Baseball Classic, as it was confirmed that young pitching prospect Silvano Hechavarría will not participate in the tournament.
According to journalist Francys Romero in his social media, the Cuban right-handed pitcher —considered the 25th prospect of the Toronto Blue Jays— had intentions of joining the national team to compete in Puerto Rico, but ultimately he will not be able to do so due to physical discomfort that continues to hinder his recovery.
Romero clarified that the 22-year-old pitcher does not yet have a set date to return to actively pitching in games, which is why his organization has decided to prioritize his health and preparation for the upcoming season.
Ongoing recovery and gradual return
According to sources, Hechavarría will start a bullpen program in March as part of his gradual return process to the mound.
The news represents another blow to the Cuban pitching staff, which has suffered several losses of young players and Major Leaguers in recent weeks, impacting the roster's makeup ahead of the most demanding event in international baseball.
A brilliant 2025 in the minors
Silvano had just signed off on a standout season in 2025 within the Toronto minor league system. In total, he recorded: 3 wins and 0 losses, a 3.22 earned run average (ERA), 86.2 innings pitched, 82 strikeouts, and a .222 opponent batting average
His numbers were spread across Rookie, Class-A, and Advanced Class-A, establishing him as one of the most promising Cuban arms within the Canadian organization.
Cuba continues to accumulate absences
Hechavarría's departure adds to a complex situation for the Cuban Federation, which is continuing to see several talents prioritize their professional commitments or remain outside the national team.
The 2026 World Baseball Classic will take place in March, with Cuba placed in the group that will play in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where they will aim to replicate or surpass their performance from the previous edition, when they reached the semifinals.
For now, the team will need to readjust its pitching plans once again in a landscape increasingly defined by absences.
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