Roger Machado’s suffering

Despite betting on revenge, despite having a better equipped team than the one he led at the Pan American Games held in Toronto in 2015, Roger Machado returns from the 58^th Caribbean Series in the fourth place, and not pleased.

Still embarrassed due to the semifinal result, Machado was ethical and started the press conference congratulating the Mexican team. “They have been the best team in the competition. We cannot expect to win if we do not score runs,” said the manager crystal-clear, without having a proper answer on why the best players in the national series —with the exception of Yuliesky Gurriel— could not adjust to face such an important event.

“I feel frustrated. Every manager wants to win. However, facts show we need to work harder so that Cuba can get closer to the level we are witnessing here. We need to face this sort of pitching more regularly because every time it gets worse to hit their pitchers”.

After admitting that Cuban pitchers failed in key situations, Machado explained that they had to play with the team defensive catcher, Frank Camilo Morejon, in order to achieve a better result. It occurred against the Dominican Republic, and somehow against Mexico. But he needed to substitute him for Osvaldo Vazquez looking for offensive.

“I am pretty frustrated, really. We fought with everything I had. We tried different lineups. Every player had their chances. But we only managed to win one game, against Leones de Escogido”.

“Left-handed pitchers destroyed us. We were forced to modify our plan lots of time. It has been a strong competition and we all must learn. We should not be tired of working because our baseball is reference in the Caribbean. And we should continue to be so”.

Finally, Machado thanked fans and the organizers. “The stadium was never at full capacity, but we felt the joy and support from the Dominican fans. I came here looking for revenge, as I said, and I was hurt again. But, as a tiger, I will be back on my feet again”.

Cubasi Translation Staff