The 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) is finally upon us. For Japanese baseball fans, Cuba will always hold a special place in their hearts, even among the 20 countries that have advanced to the finals. Twenty years have passed since their battle with Samurai Japan in the final of the inaugural tournament in 2006, and this year's Cuban team is proud of their tradition and is set to show off their talent, led by players who have grown up playing in Japanese baseball.

Exchange between two "baseball powerhouses"

Japan and Cuba have a long history of exchange through baseball. From 1991, Japan ended Cuba's 151-game winning streak, which had been undefeated and unrivaled in international matches for six years. Since then, Cuban players have played in Japan's amateur baseball, reached the finals of the first WBC in 2006, and in recent years have been active on the NPB stage. The "Red Lightning," once a thick wall between the world and Japan, has become an important presence in the Japanese baseball world, with both sides recognizing and improving their skills. Let's introduce the members of the Cuban national team.

[pitcher] Elite pitchers honed on the NPB stage

The nucleus of the Cuban national team's pitcher squad is made up of players who have proven themselves in the Japanese environment.

First, Livan Moinello pitcher of Fukuoka Softbank won the "Best ERA" title two years in a row in 2024 and 2025. With a fastball over 150 km/h and high strike out ability, he pitched in 24 games in 2025, went 12-3, and ERA posted an impressive 1.46 WHIP and 0.92 WHIP, higher than his 1.88 in 2024. The left-hander, who has grown up to become the "Hawk Ace," will first swing his arm in Puerto Rico, where Pool A will be held, for his home country.

The other is Rider Martinez pitcher, who has reigned as the absolute guardian god at Yomiuri Giants since 2025. runs In 2025, the tough right-hander pitched in 31 consecutive games hold and 58 games, setting a new team record with 46 saves, 3 , ERA 1.11, and a WHIP of 0.76. He will also play the role of closing games for Cuba's national team. He is also a member of the Cuban national team, where he plays a key role in closing out games.

Other core members include Jaleel Rodriguez pitcher (Blue Jays), a former Chunichi and reliever best player title winner who is currently honing his skills as a starter on the American stage. Other NPB veterans include Frank Alvarez pitcher of the Chunichi, Johan Lopez pitcher of the Yomiuri Giants, and Randy Martinez pitcher, currently a developmental player with the Chunichi, along with pitcher from the National League to round out the diverse group.

[fielder] Combining diverse experiences and the role of legends

The team's batting lineup will be driven by the experience they have gained in MLB and NPB. First up is switch-hitter Yoan Moncada, who has a proven track record in MLB, having played for the Chicago White Sox and the Los Angeles Angels in the 2025 season. He is known for his power hitting and solid defense, making him a key player in the cleanup hitter lineup. The addition of an MLB player to the Cuban national team will add a significant element to the lineup.

Ariel Martinez, who plays for Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, is also a player to watch, with his competitive hitting, dedicated attitude, and passion. His experience and achievements, having grown from Chunichi development team to the NPB, will surely bring a chemistry to the Cuban national team.

And we mustn't forget Alfredo Despaigne, who has been playing since the 2009 tournament, holds the record for the most Home Run in WBC history, and has extensive experience in Japan and international tournaments. He led the national team with a spectacular home run in the recently held "2026 Serie de las Americas," which is attended by Latin American countries, and is a spiritual pillar for the team. His power as a DH and pinch hitter in crucial situations is still strong, and he is a cause for concern.

Another player who will be playing for Chiba Lotte Marines is Roel Santos, who captivated fans with his speed and became famous for his "running hit," and who will bring an accent to the Cuban national team, helping them to take control of the game with his mobility.

Returning to the heights of the world

Cuba will begin their tournament in Pool A, which also includes Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, and Colombia. If they win in the host city of Puerto Rico, they could face off against Samurai Japan, a team eagerly awaited by Japanese fans. If both teams advance, they will face each other in the semi-finals or later, with the stage moving to Miami.

Miami is home to one of the largest Cuban populations in the world, and the support from these baseball Cubans will be a powerful boost for the team.

The Cuban national team, led by players who have excelled in Japan, is aiming to become the best in the world. Will Japan and Cuba once again compete for the top spot after 20 years? It will be interesting to see what kind of baseball the traditional "Red Lightning" will show on American soil.

Written by Shintaro Takebayashi