Former Cuban Major League Baseball player Kendrys Morales recently recounted an unusual story from 2002 involving Antonio Castro, son of the late dictator Fidel Castro, who was then serving as a team doctor for Cuba. In an interview with the independent outlet Swing Completo, Morales described an incident during a team trip to Canada, where he witnessed Tony Castro purchasing a $300 pair of pants for his girlfriend.
"We went shopping, and right next to me, Tony Castro bought a $300 pair of pants as a gift for his girlfriend. How does a doctor have that kind of money? People don't know the things I've seen and experienced. This happened right in front of me, with my own eyes," Morales shared.
The slugger, who later spent 13 seasons in the Major Leagues, was at the time one of Cuba's baseball stars. He contrasted the privileges enjoyed by Fidel Castro's son with the meager sums that Cuban athletes were paid. "How much did a doctor in Cuba earn when I was there? We once took a trip to Canada for 15 days. We were given $15 a day and two days to shop for our own little things. Whatever we could buy. I couldn’t because my mom couldn’t give me any more money. I had nowhere to get money, unless I sold my shirt, spikes, and all that," he explained.
In 2004, Morales was expelled from the Industriales team during the National Series, blacklisted and sidelined by Cuban sports authorities. He decided to leave the country at the young age of 20. After 13 unsuccessful attempts, he finally made it to the United States, where he carved out a remarkable career in Major League Baseball.
Reflecting on that time, Morales expressed his disbelief and frustration: "How can I see that and still defend those people? I don't want to see any of them in front of me. How can they enjoy life when I'm the one with the talent?" he questioned.
Antonio Castro exemplifies the privileges of Cuba's ruling elite, having lived a life of luxury, with vacations abroad, golf matches, and yacht excursions. In recent years, he has stayed out of the spotlight. In 2016, he was appointed as an ambassador for the International Judo Federation (IJF) and soon after promoted to president of the Medical Commission, a position he currently holds.
Insights into Kendrys Morales' Story
What did Kendrys Morales witness Tony Castro buying in Canada?
Kendrys Morales saw Tony Castro purchasing a $300 pair of pants for his girlfriend.
How much were Cuban athletes paid during trips abroad?
Cuban athletes were given $15 a day during trips, with two days designated for shopping.
What position does Antonio Castro currently hold?
Antonio Castro is the president of the Medical Commission for the International Judo Federation.