In fact, it would have never crossed my mind that in Cuba that honor would go to Frederich Cepeda, from Sancti Spiritus, not because I doubted his exceptional quality, but because it's very unusual for a player of his skills to reach these levels.

However, we're talking about a mark of endurance, perseverance, discipline, and above all, dedication, and Cepeda has plenty of that.

I knew it was only a matter of time before he reached the unsuspected figure of more than 2,500 hits in domestic tournaments, a record held by someone I didn't predict (Danel Castro), but who, like Cepeda, was an example of sacrifice.

However, the case of the hitter from Yayabo is even more striking to me, because he spent several years away from our shores while fulfilling contracts in other leagues, but even so, he continued to pave his way to glory, which, moreover, was already guaranteed with his time with our national teams.

Staying healthy for practically his entire career is one of the keys, along with the discipline that helps him stay in shape (inevitable for a long career) and avoid expulsions. Not to mention his noble dedication to any team, because this is the kind of player who doesn't hesitate to say yes to anyone who requires his services, and he always gives his all on the field.

He's also a true gentleman on and off the field, and a person who defends his moral and ethical principles above all else. I've seen him go against the grain more than once when he sees some injustice around him, regardless of the personal consequences this may bring.

The best thing is that he doesn't think about retirement at almost 45 years old (which he'll turn next week) and with 26 seasons under his belt, so when he finally decides to retire, what he'll leave behind in figures will be truly impressive.

I don't think anyone will be able to surpass the historic records of the best switch-hitting player to have played in our National Series, with more than 900 extra-base hits, 470 doubles, 2,600 RBIs, 2,000 walks, a .490 OBP, and 4,000 bases ran with his hits, and very close to reaching noteworthy figures such as 1,500 RBIs (second), 400 home runs (fourth), and 1,550 runs scored (third).

In short, we're going to crown a complete baseball player from head to toe.

Translated by Amilkal Labañino / CubaSí Translation Staff