Power-hitting Havana native Yasmani Tomás will be playing for Industriales in the III Elite League of Cuban Baseball, making his performance a key factor in the team's hopes of competing for the championship.

Despite receiving multiple contract offers and being overlooked by Cuba’s national team management, Tomás prefers to stay connected to Havana’s baseball scene.

The 34-year-old slugger, who played four seasons in MLB with the Arizona Diamondbacks—his best year being 2016 when he hit 31 home runs and drove in 83 runs—is currently training with the team at Santiago “Changa” Mederos Stadium. “My goal is to help the team as much as I can. I feel great physically and have a strong desire to play in the league.”

Following his outstanding performance in the ARCO Mexican Pacific League with the Cañeros de Los Mochis, Tomás is among the nominees for the 2024-2025 season MVP award. “I finished as the home run leader and was among the top in RBIs. Joining Industriales quickly is a plus because it helps me maintain the pace I had in Mexico.”

Tomás has turned down multiple contract offers to play in the Elite League. “I’ve had offers from independent leagues in the U.S., as well as from Mexico and Venezuela, but I decided to stay here, close to my family, and play the full season with Industriales.”

The Havana-born first baseman made it clear that his priority is Industriales, not the national team. Without a doubt, Tomás was one of Cuba’s most notable absentees in the Premier 12 Tournament.

“Before leaving Cuba, my main goal was to be part of Team Cuba. I even played in the 2013 World Baseball Classic. But right now, my motivation is to play for Industriales and help them win another title. Honestly, I have no aspirations with the national team.”

Yasmani Tomás is expected to be Industriales’ cleanup hitter and starting first baseman in the III Elite League. The team will make its debut on the 15th against Pinar del Río at Capitán San Luis Stadium. Their first home game at Latinoamericano Stadium will be against Granma on March 20 in the second series.

Translated by Sergio A. Paneque Díaz / CubaSí Translation Staff