Camagüey, September 1. - There's only a short time left until the 64th National Baseball Series begins, and the atmosphere surrounding Cuba's most popular sport is already palpable. Starting this Tuesday, September 2nd, baseball will "steal" the spotlight, and every corner will be the site of debate and controversy, as each fan passionately defends their team in a classic act of unimaginable devotion.
Camagüey fans don't hide their hopes that, with renewed leadership, they can suddenly erase the negative image of last season, when they fell almost to the bottom of the standings.
And with each championship, aspirations are renewed, perhaps for the sake of a clean slate.
Now, the goal is to qualify for the round of eight, an aspiration that will require raising the level of play, although the objective is not entirely unattainable.
It takes more than willpower, of course, but it is feasible.Doubts regarding the team’s selection and competitive goals stem from an apparent fragility in the pitching staff, an area composed mostly of young players without experience in these competitions. Now, their debut will be against the visiting Guantánamo, and the Camagüey team coach "Viyo" Odelin confirmed right-hander José Ramón Rodríguez to seek the team’s first victory of the tournament.
According to reports, the pitcher is expected to leave for Venezuela in the coming weeks, where he has a renewed professional contract. The possible starting lineup remains unknown, although there are certain positions that are not up for discussion. With the assertion that Yordanis Samón will play first baseman, for the time being, the designated hitter, second baseman, and catcher remain to be determined.
The 64th national campaign brings challenges, as well as opportunities. Hopefully, the Toros can perform a memorable demonstration...... (Text: Gilberto Rodríguez Rivero/Radio Cadena Agramonte Contributor) (Photo: Taken from the Internet)