The world of Cuban baseball has been rocked by a violent altercation involving Eriel Sánchez, the manager of the Gallos de Sancti Spíritus, and technical commissioner Miguel Rojas. After the incident made waves on social media and news outlets on Monday, Sánchez chose to share his side of the story in an interview with the Escambray newspaper. He emphasized that while he does not excuse his actions, he believes it's important for people to understand his perspective.
"Given the number of people who appreciate me and are surprised by the magnitude of this situation, which I was initially unaware of—since I don't use Facebook but checked it for this—I found it shocking and felt it necessary to share my side, without justifying any wrongdoing," Sánchez told the media.
A Controversial Play: The Beginning of the Conflict
The confrontation began during the eighth inning of a game between Sancti Spíritus and Isla de la Juventud on Saturday, September 27. According to Sánchez: "The bases were loaded, a fly ball was hit to left field, and the outfielder misplayed it. The home plate umpire signaled that the run counted. I was under the impression the score was 6-3, but later I was told it was 5-4. What I don't understand is why the rule wasn't applied immediately."
This late adjustment to the score sparked discontent in the Sancti Spíritus dugout, although they ultimately won the game. It was then that Sánchez confronted Rojas.
The Heated Exchange with Miguel Rojas
The tension escalated with a heated remark from Sánchez: "I crouched in front of him at the fence and said, 'Hey, man, instead of worrying about food nonsense, you should focus on what's happening here.' It seems Rojas didn't take it well and responded with a curse." This exchange quickly spiraled out of control. "We both insulted each other's mothers," the manager admitted. Rojas even challenged him, saying, "Rojas dared me to step in so we could fight."
Office Confrontation: Violence Erupts
After a temporary calm, the situation took a turn for the worse. Sánchez recounts that about 30 minutes after the game, Rojas stormed into his office and confronted him: "He didn't come to talk; he came straight at me, upset about what we said about our mothers. He swung at me, I responded, and he fell against a table." Sánchez insists his actions were in self-defense and denies using a bat: "When I saw he had something in his hand, I grabbed a stick and swung it, hitting his hand. I can't say if the injury was from the stick or the table. I want to clarify it wasn't a bat, as some claim."
Remorse and Reflection
Fully aware of the seriousness of the incident, Sánchez expressed shame: "I'm embarrassed and regretful about everything that happened. It involves a colleague from Sancti Spíritus, someone I've never had issues with. I feel bad, especially about what's being said." He emphasized that his actions were not premeditated and that he never intended to harm anyone. "I've never tried to harm anyone's health, even though this aggression occurred under circumstances I explained," he stated.
Sustained Impact: Public Judgment and Potential Penalties
Sánchez is acutely aware of the public's judgment against him: "It hurts to be labeled a murderer, a coward, many things I'm not. I hope to maintain whatever remains of my reputation." He also acknowledges that the National Baseball Commission's decision looms over him: "I'm waiting for their decision, which I think should be based on thorough analysis and investigation, addressing all responsibilities." Addressing the calls for a permanent ban, he said, "Many say I shouldn't manage anymore. I believe decisions should be based on facts, not on a demand for retribution."
The Broader Context: A Clash of Titans
The incident was first revealed on social media and later confirmed by Escambray. Witnesses state that the argument between Sánchez and Rojas escalated following the contentious play, resulting in Rojas sustaining a head injury that required five stitches at Camilo Cienfuegos Provincial Hospital. The provincial director of Sports, Laidalí Santana, described the scene starkly: "By the time I arrived, his head was already injured."
Miguel Rojas claimed he was struck with "a piece of bat" and had little opportunity to defend himself before the blow. Both men had to report to the police due to the injuries involved. The National Baseball Commission broke its silence, announcing that its Disciplinary Commission is investigating the incident. Until a resolution is reached, neither figure will participate in the 64th SNB. Reactions poured in swiftly, with journalist Yasel Porto stating the event "warrants a permanent expulsion from Cuban baseball," marking it as "a turning point" in the sport's recent history.
Questions Regarding the Eriel Sánchez Incident
What led to the altercation between Eriel Sánchez and Miguel Rojas?
The altercation began over a controversial play during a baseball game, which led to a dispute over the score. This disagreement escalated into a verbal and physical confrontation.
How did Eriel Sánchez justify his actions?
Eriel Sánchez claimed his actions were in self-defense after being confronted by Miguel Rojas in his office. He denied using a bat, stating he responded to Rojas's aggression with a stick.
What are the potential consequences for Eriel Sánchez?
The National Baseball Commission is investigating the incident, and Sánchez faces a possible permanent ban from Cuban baseball, depending on the outcome of the investigation.