Morosi: The Future of Cuban Baseball

[weams]

http://www.foxsports.com/mlb/story/cuba-beats-puerto-rico-caribbean-series-defections-hector-mendoza-vladimir-gutierrez-dainer-moreira-020515

Had Mendoza been born in the U.S., he might be a Friday night starter in the SEC, showcasing his 94-mph fastball for a likely first-round selection -- and multimillion-dollar signing bonus. Instead, he lives in a place where relatively few decisions are his alone to make.

It wasn't until after midnight local time that Mendoza finished shaking hands and posing for pictures. At last, he walked toward the team bus, guided by team officials. The police escort - four motorcycles in front, two SUVs - was already in place.

And do you know what Cuba's newest baseball star was wearing on his feet? A pair of Nikes.

[Can_of_corn]

It is going to be like the Negro leagues.

[srock]

There is a real opportunity for some baseball diplomacy.

Part of opening relations with Cuba could involve setting up an MLB affiliated league on the island. Maybe a AAA league or something.

Use the popularity of the sport to start an industry that works directly with US and Canadian economies.

[Orioles4Life21]

It's a shame that the Cuban national team suffers for their players leaving for a better life. Imagine how good their team would be if they could still have Cespedes, Puig, Chapman, Abreu, Soler, Tomas, Moncada, ect.

[incubus]

Havanna Rays anyone?

[Roll Tide]

Havanna Rays anyone?

I'd prefer the Havana Nationals

[incubus]

I'd prefer the Havana Nationals

Havanna Nacionales or Havanna Cuidadanos both sound good

[Rick_Schu]

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Peter Gammons was talking about how insanely fun the Cuban league games are. Players are talking smack and flipping bats while girls dance on top of the dugouts. What a trip that would be!

[UpstateNYfan]

There is a real opportunity for some baseball diplomacy.

Part of opening relations with Cuba could involve setting up an MLB affiliated league on the island. Maybe a AAA league or something.

Use the popularity of the sport to start an industry that works directly with US and Canadian economies.

Ask Frank Verdi, ex Rochester Red Wing who took a bullet off the batting helmet while playing against the Havana Sugar Kings during the revolution!!!

[duffaphonic]

La Habana Tabaqueros.