César Prieto has unequivocally declined the possibility of joining the Cuban national team for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. When asked hypothetically, "César, if you get a call to join Team Cuba, would you go?" Prieto responded, "That possibility does not exist." He further clarified, "Whether they call me or not, my answer is no," according to a report by Pelota Cubana.
Back in 2021, upon arriving in the United States, Prieto famously defected from the Cuban team participating in the Pre-Olympic Baseball Tournament held in Florida from May 31 to June 5. As a result, he is ineligible for the upcoming Classic, given the Cuban Federation’s regulations against players who have "deserted" from official delegations.
At that time, Prieto, originally from Cienfuegos, was considered one of the top talents remaining in Cuba. He chose to showcase his skills in pursuit of a professional contract, which he secured months later with the Baltimore Orioles, who subsequently assigned him to the Cardinals.
Currently, Prieto plays for the Memphis Redbirds, the Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, and continues to stand out as one of the most promising Cuban prospects in the Minor Leagues.
Challenges Ahead for Team Cuba
In other developments, it was announced this week that former star shortstop Germán Mesa has been appointed as the official manager of the Cuban baseball team for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. His main duties will involve reaching out to professional Cuban players, both within Cuba and abroad, guided by an assessment conducted by the Federation. Additionally, he is tasked with establishing a training regimen and critical path for various international tournaments.
Mesa faces a dual challenge: not only must he persuade professional players to join the team, but he also needs to prepare them to compete at the highest level against teams brimming with Major League talent.
Cuba has been placed in Group A for the VI World Baseball Classic, scheduled for March 2026 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This group, already dubbed the "group of death" by many experts, includes formidable opponents: host and favorite Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, and Colombia.
Key Insights into Cuba's Baseball Team and Prospects
Why did César Prieto refuse to play for Team Cuba?
César Prieto refused because he defected from the Cuban team in 2021 and, under the Cuban Federation's rules, is ineligible to play after leaving an official delegation.
Who is Germán Mesa?
Germán Mesa is a former star shortstop and has recently been appointed as the manager of the Cuban baseball team for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
What are the challenges facing Team Cuba in the 2026 World Baseball Classic?
Team Cuba's challenges include convincing professional players to join the team and preparing to compete against teams filled with Major League talent.