Miami fans gave a standing ovation to Cuban pitcher Aroldis Chapman during the season opener between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Miami Marlins, sending a message to the Marlins' management about their failure to sign Cuban talent that could attract fans. The article criticizes the Marlins for missing opportunities to sign players like Chapman and José “Candelita” Iglesias, and for not paying attention to community relations. It also covers the upcoming MLB season, including Cuban players on various teams, and mentions a betting scandal involving Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter.

Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani, playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers, addressed the media denying any involvement in sports betting following a scandal involving his former translator and friend Ippei Mizuhara. Mizuhara was fired by the Dodgers after it was revealed that $4.5 million had been paid from Ohtani's accounts. The MLB maintains strict rules against betting, and federal authorities in the US are investigating the case. In related news, Rimas Sports, a sports representation agency founded by Puerto Rican reggaeton artist Bad Bunny, is facing potential failure after disciplinary actions by the MLB Players Association for providing improper benefits to players. The agency's main baseball agent, William Arroyo, and executives Jonathan Miranda and Noah Assad faced certification denials and sanctions.

Cuban baseball player Aroldis Chapman, known for his fast pitching, has signed a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates for the 2024 season, marking his sixth Major League team since his debut in 2010. Chapman, who has 321 career saves, may again become a valuable trade asset mid-season, similar to his previous year with the Kansas City Royals before being traded to the Texas Rangers, with whom he won the World Series. The article also discusses the Miami Marlins' missed opportunities to sign Cuban players who could boost attendance, such as Chapman and José Iglesias. Radio Martí plans to broadcast MLB games to Cuban audiences, with the season starting on March 28, 2024, and 18 Cuban players distributed among 14 teams.

The Houston Astros have signed 20-year-old Cuban outfielder César Yanquiel Hernández, who received a $1.7 million signing bonus. Hernández, previously considered the best Cuban prospect under 18, left Cuba last year and settled in the Dominican Republic to prepare for his professional career. The Astros also signed outfielder Luis Miguel Rives with an $800,000 bonus. Meanwhile, the MLB free agent market is moving slowly, with several top players still unsigned. Cuban athletes Ramiro Mora and Fernando Dayán Jorge will join the International Olympic Committee's Refugee Olympic Team for Paris 2024. The article also highlights the performances of Cuban players in the MLB and notes the defection of judoka Magdiel Estrada from the Cuban delegation at the Pan American Championships.

Between 2016 and 2022, FIFA provided Cuba with eight million dollars, but there is little evidence of the investment's impact on football in the country. The FIFA financial report reveals that 900 thousand of these funds were used to pay Cuban Football Federation (FCF) officials, and questions arise about the disproportionate investment relative to the lack of football results. The report details spending on male and female teams, infrastructure repairs, and training, but the effectiveness of these expenditures is under scrutiny. The article also highlights the success of Cuban baseball players in MLB, contrasting it with the underperformance of football in Cuba. It includes the stories of successful Cuban athletes like Yordán Álvarez and Yariel Rodríguez in baseball, Ronel Blanco's no-hitter game, Erislandy Lara's boxing victory, and the strong start to the MLB season by Lourdes Gurriel Junior and Yandy Díaz.

On December 29, 1878, baseball was officially played in Cuba for the first time, marking the beginning of the Cuban Professional League. The inaugural game saw club Habana defeat Almendares 21-20. The league's establishment was part of a broader cultural embrace of baseball in Cuba, which was then a Spanish colony. The sport's popularity was tied to the pursuit of independence from Spain and the influence of the United States. The article also discusses the manipulation of baseball history by the Cuban government and the role of baseball in the country's post-revolutionary sports movement. Additionally, it covers recent developments in baseball, including Cuban pitcher Vladimir Gutiérrez's performance with the Miami Marlins and the Inter Miami soccer team's progress in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, featuring players like Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez.

Cuban boxer Frank Sánchez knocked out New Zealander Junior Fa in the seventh round during a boxing event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Sánchez remains undefeated with 18 knockouts in 24 fights. The event also featured victories by Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker, and a title defense by Dimitry Bivol. Cuban Olympic champion Andy Cruz is set to fight Mexican veteran Antonio Morán in Los Angeles. Rimas Sports, founded by Bad Bunny, faces potential failure after an independent arbitrator denied a temporary restraining order following MLBPA's investigation into improper benefits provided to players. The MLBPA imposed a fine and a five-year suspension on the agency's main baseball agent, William Arroyo. Baseball players Adolis García and Raisel Iglesias are highlighted for their outstanding performances, while José Abreu and Randy Arozarena are noted for their struggles. Cuban baseball prospect Andy Pagés is called up to the MLB by the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. signed a three-year, $42 million contract to stay with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He was a key player in the team's World Series run. Other Cuban free agents include his brother Yuli, Yasmani Grandal, Aroldis Chapman, Jorge Soler, and Yariel Rodríguez. Adrián Morejón pitched for the San Diego Padres in the 2024 MLB season opener in Seoul. Vladimir Gutiérrez is showing promise with the Miami Marlins after a Tommy John surgery. Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez led Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over Nashville SC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Aroldis Chapman signed a one-year, $10.5 million contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Inter Miami lost its MLS unbeaten streak, falling 3-2 to Montreal.

Shohei Ohtani's unprecedented 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, which defers 97.1% of the payment until after the contract's end, could revolutionize future MLB contracts. The structure allows the Dodgers financial flexibility and alleviates their Competitive Balance Tax burden. The article also discusses the impact of Cuban players in MLB, the anticipation of Radio Martí's broadcasts of the 2024 MLB season to Cuban audiences, and the gambling scandal involving Ohtani's former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara.

Cuban boxer Robeisy Ramírez is set to defend his World Boxing Organization featherweight title in South Florida against Mexican Rafael Espinoza, with tickets already sold out. Olympic champion Andy Cruz will fight Jovanni Straffon in San Francisco. Cuban athletes Ramiro Mora and Fernando Dayán Jorge will join the Refugee Olympic Team for Paris 2024. Cuban baseball player Andy Pagés has made a successful debut in Major League Baseball, while Adrián Morejón and Yennier Cano have had notable performances. Jorge Soler, however, has struggled to meet expectations. Judoka Magdiel Estrada left the Cuban delegation in Brazil. Miami's loanDepot Park will host the World Baseball Classic in 2026, and Lourdes Gurriel Junior has signed a new contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks after a successful season.

Cuban baseball players Víctor Mesa Jr. of the Miami Marlins and Yanquiel Fernández of the Colorado Rockies have been added to their respective teams' 40-man rosters, a move that protects them from being selected by other teams in the Rule 5 Draft. This indicates that both teams value them as prospects. Víctor Mesa Jr. had a breakout offensive season in Double-A, while Fernández is ranked second among Colorado's prospects. Other Cuban players like Andy Ibáñez and Ryan Vilade also had notable performances. Additionally, Cubans Ramiro Mora and Fernando Dayán Jorge will join the Refugee Olympic Team for Paris 2024. The article also mentions the debut of Andy Pagés with the Los Angeles Dodgers and the performances of Adrián Morejón and Yennier Cano. Jorge Soler's struggles with the San Francisco Giants are highlighted, and judoka Magdiel Estrada's defection from the Cuban delegation is reported.

World featherweight champion Robeisy Ramírez is set to defend his title against Mexican Rafael Espinoza on December 9 in Miami. Ramírez, a two-time Olympic champion, has a record of 13 wins and one loss, while Espinoza has 21 victories with no losses. Ramírez expressed his dream of defending his title in Miami, home to a large Cuban exile community, and sent a message of support to Cubans on the island through Radio Martí. The article also covers performances of other Cuban athletes in baseball, including Andy Ibáñez's notable contribution to the Detroit Tigers' victory, and mentions the inclusion of Cuban athletes Ramiro Mora and Fernando Dayán Jorge in the Refugee Olympic Team for Paris 2024. Additionally, it discusses the success of the V World Baseball Classic in Miami and the city's selection as a main venue for the 2026 edition.

Merryl Kelly led the Arizona Diamondbacks to a 9-1 victory over the Texas Rangers, tying the World Series at one win each. Kelly's seven-inning performance limited the Rangers to one run and three hits. The Diamondbacks capitalized on small ball play, and despite a close game for the first two-thirds, they pulled away in the later innings. Notable performances included Gabriel Moreno's home run and Tommy Pham's four hits. The Diamondbacks aim to continue their success in the upcoming games in Phoenix. In other baseball news, Yariel Rodríguez is poised to join the Toronto Blue Jays after a strong Triple-A debut, and the Houston Astros' Ronel Blanco pitched a no-hitter against the Blue Jays. Cuban boxer Erislandy Lara successfully defended his title with a knockout win over Michael Zerafa. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. has had a record-breaking start to the season with the Diamondbacks, while José Abreu and Yordán Alvarez of the Houston Astros have had slow starts.

Cuban baseball player Adolis García hit a game-winning home run for the Texas Rangers against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2023 World Series. García set a postseason RBI record with his performance. The article also discusses the inclusion of Cuban athletes Ramiro Mora and Fernando Dayán Jorge in the International Olympic Committee's Refugee Olympic Team for Paris 2024. Other Cuban baseball players such as Andy Pagés, Adrián Morejón, and Yennier Cano are highlighted for their achievements in Major League Baseball. The article mentions the defection of judoka Magdiel Estrada from the Cuban delegation and the political controversy surrounding the Cuban baseball team's participation in Miami. Lourdes Gurriel Junior's career progression is also covered.

Adolis García, nicknamed 'El Bombi,' led the Texas Rangers to an 11-4 victory over the Houston Astros in the decisive seventh game of the American League Championship Series (ALCS), securing their third World Series appearance in history. García's performance included four hits, three runs, five RBIs, and two home runs. The Rangers won all four away games against the Astros, who failed to secure a home victory in the series. Bruce Bochy, in his first year as the Rangers' manager, has a record of never losing a Game 7 in the postseason. The Astros' manager, Dusty Baker, has never won a Game 7 in the playoffs. The article also briefly covers the National League Championship Series and other baseball news, including Cuban players' performances in the Major Leagues.

The Philadelphia Phillies are one step away from advancing to the World Series after defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks 6-1 in the fifth game of the National League Championship Series (NLCS). Zack Wheeler pitched seven innings, and Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, and JT Realmuto each hit home runs. The Phillies now lead the NLCS 3-2 and will return to Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia needing one win in the next two games to secure their place in the World Series. The article also discusses the Miami Marlins' missed opportunities to sign Cuban players who could attract fans, and the MLB's season opening in Seoul, South Korea, with 18 Cuban players distributed among 14 teams.

Cuban players Yordán Alvarez and José Abreu each drove in three runs, leading the Houston Astros to a 10-3 victory over the Texas Rangers, tying the American League Championship Series at two wins each. The Philadelphia Phillies struggled offensively against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the National League Championship Series. Rimas Sports, an athlete representation agency founded by Puerto Rican reggaeton artist Bad Bunny, faces potential failure due to actions outside industry rules, with the MLBPA imposing sanctions. Adolis García is performing well for the Rangers, while José Abreu and Randy Arozarena are experiencing slumps. Cuban player Andy Pagés is called up to the Los Angeles Dodgers from the minor leagues.

The first phase of the MLB postseason ended swiftly with the Tampa Bay Rays, Toronto Blue Jays, Milwaukee Brewers, and Miami Marlins being swept by the Texas Rangers, Minnesota Twins, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Philadelphia Phillies, respectively. The Rays and Blue Jays struggled offensively, while the Twins won their first postseason series in 21 years. The Diamondbacks celebrated their victory in Milwaukee, and the Phillies dominated the Marlins. Shohei Ohtani addressed a betting scandal involving his former interpreter. The 2024 MLB season opened in Seoul with Cuban pitcher Adrián Morejón playing for the San Diego Padres. The Miami Marlins may have found a pitching solution in Vladimir Gutiérrez. Inter Miami, with Messi and Suárez, advanced in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Aroldis Chapman signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates, potentially as a trade asset for a postseason-contending team.

Twelve Cuban baseball players will participate in the Major League Baseball postseason, representing seven teams. Notable players include Yuli Gurriel and Jorge Soler of the Miami Marlins, Yordán Alvarez and José Abreu of the Houston Astros, and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The article highlights the achievements and expectations of these players, as well as the historical significance of Cuban players in MLB. It also touches on the political aspect of Cuban athletes defecting, with judoka Magdiel Estrada leaving the Cuban delegation before a qualifying event for the Olympics.

A team of Cuban baseball players exiled in the United States has been invited to participate in the Intercontinental Series in Colombia, scheduled between January 25 and February 1. The team will compete under the Cuban Professional Baseball Federation (FEPCUBE), a new entity led by Mandy Llanes. The article also covers various baseball-related news, including Shohei Ohtani's denial of involvement in a betting scandal, Adrián Morejón's performance in the MLB 2024 season opener, Vladimir Gutiérrez's promising pre-season with the Miami Marlins, and Aroldis Chapman's new contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Additionally, it mentions Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez's successful partnership in Inter Miami's victory over Nashville SC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

Inter Miami missed Lionel Messi in their 5-2 defeat to Atlanta United in the MLS. Over 71,000 fans were disappointed by Messi's absence. Miami scored first with a goal by Leonardo Campana but Atlanta quickly equalized and took the lead. Miami is now penultimate in the standings with 28 points. In MLB news, San Diego Padres' Adrián Morejón pitched in the season opener in Seoul, marking his return from injury. The Miami Marlins signed Cuban pitcher Vladimir Gutiérrez, who is performing well in spring training. Inter Miami previously advanced in the CONCACAF Champions Cup with Messi and Luis Suárez leading a 3-1 victory over Nashville SC. Aroldis Chapman signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates as a setup man. Inter Miami lost their MLS unbeaten streak with a 3-2 defeat in Montreal, despite not fielding Messi, Suárez, or Sergio Busquets.

Cuba defeated Australia 11-1 in the Little League World Series, keeping their hopes alive in the tournament. Samuel Palencia starred as the pitcher, leading the team to victory. Rimas Sports, founded by Bad Bunny, faces allegations of industry rule violations and is at risk of failure. MLBPA has taken disciplinary actions against Rimas Sports, including fines and suspensions. Adolis García is highlighted for his exceptional performance in Major League Baseball, while other players like Raisel Iglesias and Néstor Cortés are also praised for their contributions. The article also touches on the story of Olympic champion Fernando Dayán Jorge, who is now a refugee hopeful for the Olympic team.

Cuba's team failed to hit against Japanese pitchers in their debut at the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, losing 1-0. Luis Gurriel, cousin of MLB players Yuli and Lourdes Jr., pitched well despite the loss. Cuba now faces potential elimination and will play against the loser of the Curacao vs. Australia match. MLB players sent messages of support to the Cuban team. The Little League World Series has been held since 1947, with Cuba joining the competition in 2021. In other baseball news, Cuban pitcher Adrián Morejón played in the 2024 MLB season opener in Seoul, South Korea. Vladimir Gutiérrez is performing well in spring training for the Miami Marlins after recovering from Tommy John surgery. Aroldis Chapman signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates for the 2024 season. In soccer, Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, advanced in the CONCACAF Champions Cup but later lost their MLS unbeaten streak in Montreal.

Inter Miami defeated Philadelphia Union 4-1, advancing to the Leagues Cup final where they will face Nashville SC. Lionel Messi continued his scoring streak, contributing to the victory. The article also discusses the performance of other players and teams, including a detailed account of MLB activities involving Cuban players like Adrián Morejón and Vladimir Gutiérrez. It concludes with a brief mention of Inter Miami's upcoming matches in the MLS and CONCACAF Champions League.

Cuban professional boxer Andy Cruz, an Olympic champion, is set to face Mexican boxer Brayan Zamarripa on February 24, 2024, in Orlando, Florida. The event will be part of a DAZN card featuring a World Boxing Council super middleweight title fight. Cruz has had a successful start to his professional career with two wins in 2023. The article also covers other sports news, including Cuban athletes Ramiro Mora and Fernando Dayán Jorge joining the International Olympic Committee's Refugee Olympic Team for Paris 2024, and updates on Cuban baseball players' performances in Major League Baseball. Additionally, it discusses the political controversy surrounding Cuban sports teams' participation in international events hosted in Miami.

Yoan Moncada of the Chicago White Sox showed promising performance with a .435 average and five RBIs over the past week. Oscar Colás is adjusting to the Major Leagues in his rookie year. Yandy Díaz of the Tampa Bay Rays leads the American League batting with a .326 average. Randy Arozarena also performed well for Tampa Bay. Adolis García of the Texas Rangers experienced a slump, impacting his team's standing. Andy Pagés received a call to join the Los Angeles Dodgers in the Major Leagues, and Yariel Rodríguez made his debut with the Toronto Blue Jays. Cuban athletes in other sports, like Fernando Dayán Jorge, face challenges due to immigration issues but have opportunities like the Refugee Athlete Scholarship.