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The Cuban left-handed pitcher Naykel Cruz was released by the Baltimore Orioles organization, as reported by journalist Francys Romero on his social media.
Cruz, 26 years old, aimed to position himself within the Double-A or Triple-A levels in the club's system, but everything suggests that the franchise did not have enough space within its pitching lineup.
Without World Classic
The possibility of the player from Matanzas attending the 2026 World Baseball Classic with the Cuba team was discussed in recent weeks, especially after overcoming obstacles related to health insurance.
However, he will ultimately not be part of the final roster of 30 players for the tournament.
The departure from the Baltimore organization now leaves the left-hander seeking a new professional opportunity, whether within organized baseball in the United States or in other leagues.
The information was shared by journalist Francys Romero on Facebook, who pointed out that, without the obstacle of the health insurance required by the organization, the left-handed player would now have a clear path to pitch at the event.
Total willingness to compete
According to the source, Cruz had expressed his intention to participate "one way or another" in the tournament, even after the insurance company initially denied the necessary coverage and despite the club's recommendations.
Numbers in the DSL
In his most recent appearance in the Dominican Summer League (DSL), Naykel Cruz recorded the following stats: 19.2 innings pitched (IP), a 4.58 earned run average (ERA), 28 strikeouts and 5 walks (28 K / 5 BB), and a 1.22 WHIP.
The left-handed pitcher, viewed as a young arm with potential, had been on the radar to join the pitching staff for the international tournament.
For now, the official confirmation is pending on whether he will finally wear the Cuba uniform in the tournament.
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