Classic Cuba to close preparation in Taiwan

Havana, February 24 (RHC)-- The bulk of Cuba's team for the V World Baseball Classic will begin training tomorrow in Taipei, where it plans to add six games to the five recently played in Japan with a balance of two wins and three losses.

The team coached by Armando Johnson will visit the Xinzhuang Stadium, the home professional league's stadium, after noon, in order to resume work after the inactivity imposed by the transfer from Japanese soil.

"The purpose of this stage is to concentrate on group actions and define aspects related to the approach of the pitchers according to the designed rotation and the possible lineup," explained coach Humberto Guevara.

For his part, the president of the Cuban Baseball Federation, Juan Reinaldo Pérez Pardo, confirmed that the four duels arranged with local officials will be played on February 26, 27 and 28, and March 2.

He recalled that one date later the national team will travel to Taichung, and informed that it will be then when they will receive Luis Robert Moirán, Roennis Elías, Ronald Bolaños, Andy Ibáñez, Yoan Moncada, Miguel Romero, Yoenis Céspedes and Lorenzo Quintana.

The first six are limited by a provision involving all MLB members. The remaining two were not able to obtain the visas requested in the United States, where they reside.

With them already incorporated, the Island team will take on the games scheduled by the organizers for March 5 and 6, as a prelude to the tournament that a couple of days later will host its debut against the Netherlands.

PREPARATION GAMES IN TAIWAN

February 26 vs. Fubon Guardians (12:00 local time)

February 27 vs. Fubon Guardians (19:00, local time)

February 28 vs. Wei Chuan Dragons (12:00, local time)

March 2 vs. Taiwan Cooperative Bank (12:00, local time) 

March 5 vs. Rakuten Monkeys (19:00, local time)

March 6 vs CTBC Brothers (19:00, local time).