The story of Sinaloa, Mexico 2014 was repeated in Iwaki, Japan, on August 7, where Cuba won the Under-15 Baseball World Championship for a second time, with a dynamic offense, strong defense, satisfactory pitching and above all an unwavering determination which saw them advance throughout the competition.
The team looked in for a tough time after suffering defeats by Japan and South Korea in the first round. However, victories against Colombia and Australia, in addition to their predicted win over the Czechs, saw them emerge from the shadow of defeat to advance to the next stage.
The United States, Panama and Venezuela were unable to decipher the Cuban team’s winning strategy, which continued to bear fruit and saw the islanders end the competition with four consecutive wins, the last one 9-4 against the hosts in the final, during which the team demonstrated for the hundredth time during the tournament, their strong defense and effective offense.
The Cuban team was miles ahead after the first half with a score of 8-0, due in large part to the contribution of left-handed pitcher Liván Cahaviano.
Starter Loidel Chapellí Jr was selected as Most Valuable Player of the tournament, with two runs, three runs-batted-in, and one stolen base, as well as a couple of excellent defensive plays, including the final out of the game which saw Cuba win the competition title.
Three of Chapellí’s teammates – shortstop Daniel Alejandro Castillo, fielder Hansel Otamendi and third-baseman Malcom Yaniel Núñez - also made the competition All Star team. Núñez was also top batter with an astronomical average of 613.
"I feel extremely proud; the boys gave me the delight that our county had so hoped for. We dedicate this victory to Comandante Fidel, and with two World Championships and a continental title, what more can I ask for,” stated an overjoyed Gerty Febles, Cuban team coach, speaking to officials at the Cuban Embassy in Japan.
OFFICIAL VOICE OF THE COMMUNIST
PARTY OF CUBA CENTRAL COMMITTEE
