The Cuban Baseball and Softball Federation (CBSF) announced Friday the addition of pitcher Armando Dueñas and infielder Cristian Rodríguez to the national roster for the sixth World Baseball Classic, scheduled from March 5 through 17 in the United States, Puerto Rico, and Japan.

Both athletes fill the spots vacated by pitchers Daviel Hurtado, who sustained an injury, and Naykel Cruz, whose insurance coverage was denied, as the federation had previously reported.

Dueñas, who has seen action in several professional leagues, is expected to strengthen the bullpen. He has demonstrated steady development in the command of his pitching arsenal, particularly in his ability to control his deliveries.

Rodríguez, currently signed with a professional team in Japanese baseball, provides versatile coverage at third base and shortstop while continuing to solidify his offensive contributions at the plate.

The CBSF reiterated through its official account on the social media platform X its gratitude to Hurtado and Cruz "for their willingness to represent Team Cuba" in the premier international baseball tournament.

A portion of the Cuban roster announced for the 2026 World Baseball Classic is wrapping up a friendly series against Nicaragua on Friday, a matchup serving both squads as preparation for the tournament. The series stands at one win apiece following an opening-game tie. For the decisive final game, manager Germán Mesa named left-hander Liván Moinelo of Pinar del Río — a pitcher with proven experience in Japan — who is expected to lead Cuba's starting rotation at the Classic.