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Tensions Flare in Industriales vs. Granma: Pitch Controversy, Empty Benches, and Ejection in Elite League Clash

Friday, April 18, 2025 by Grace Ramos

Tensions Flare in Industriales vs. Granma: Pitch Controversy, Empty Benches, and Ejection in Elite League Clash
Altercation in the Industriales-Granma duel - Image by © Screenshot/Dporto Sports Media

The matchup between Industriales and Granma at the *Mártires de Barbados* stadium reached its most intense moment of the 2025 Elite League on Tuesday, following a pitch that led to a heated argument and empty benches.

The central figure in this incident was pitcher Leodan Reyes from Pinar del Río, now representing the celebrated Industriales Lions, the most successful team in Cuban baseball history. As shown in a video by journalist Yasel Porto on YouTube, Reyes threw two pitches that came dangerously close to infielder Yuliesky Remón, sparking tempers on Granma's bench.

Outfielder Alexquemer Sánchez, positioned on third base at the time, vehemently protested to the pitcher, which triggered an immediate reaction from both teams. Despite the benches emptying and players rushing onto the field, the situation did not escalate into physical altercations.

The chief umpire decided to eject Leodan Reyes from the game, with tensions also running high among the officiating crew due to their decisions in what had appeared to be a settled game.

A Modern Classic That Never Disappoints

The rivalry between the Lions and Alazanes is one of the most anticipated in the national schedule. Even though this encounter seemed decided early on, the game became emotionally charged and controversial in its final innings, reminding fans that in Cuban baseball, the outcome is never certain until the last out.

Key Moments and Impacts of the Industriales vs. Granma Game

What caused the benches to empty during the Industriales vs. Granma game?

The benches emptied after pitcher Leodan Reyes threw two pitches that nearly hit infielder Yuliesky Remón, leading to a heated exchange between the two teams.

Who was ejected from the game and why?

Leodan Reyes was ejected from the game after his aggressive pitching and the subsequent altercation with Granma's bench.

How did the incident affect the outcome of the game?

While the game was already leaning towards a decisive outcome, the incident added emotional and controversial elements to the final innings, highlighting the unpredictability of Cuban baseball.

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