Eriel Sánchez León, the director and former leader of the Gallos team, has declared his permanent departure from Cuban baseball. This decision comes in response to a five-year suspension handed down by the National Baseball Commission (CNB) following a violent altercation on September 27 at José Antonio Huelga Stadium in Sancti Spíritus. The announcement has sent shockwaves through the national sports community, particularly due to Sánchez's firm statement regarding his future in baseball management.
"I will never manage again, not even after five years," Sánchez stated in an audio message shared by the local media outlet Escambray. "I feel so ashamed and embarrassed that, even if I weren't sanctioned, I wouldn't continue. I'm resigning, not out of cowardice—because I'm not someone who gives up work or other commitments—but to avoid losing a reputation I worked hard to build," he explained. "I am taking responsibility for something that isn't mine. I'm not the person being portrayed online. That's why I'm stepping down, so the few who still believe in my integrity can keep doing so," he concluded.
The Sanctions: Five Years for Eriel Sánchez and Three for Miguel Rojas
The National Baseball Commission announced on Tuesday that Eriel Sánchez has been suspended from the competitive system for five years, while Eusebio Miguel Rojas Rodríguez, a technical commissioner involved in the incident, faces a three-year suspension. Both penalties are rooted in what the CNB classifies as "very serious indiscipline," as outlined in Article 17, clause c, of the Disciplinary Regulations governing Cuban baseball, and are penalized according to Article 20, clause l of the same document.
The CNB described the incident as beginning with the controversy surrounding a play disputed by the Sancti Spíritus team during a match against Isla de la Juventud. Despite winning the game, the dispute led to a heated exchange between Sánchez and the technical commissioner, culminating in a physical confrontation off the field. In their statement, the Commission labeled the event as "an entirely avoidable episode, stemming from the irresponsible actions of those involved, and not reflective of the values of the Cuban sports system."
Miguel Rojas: "I Was the One Attacked"
On his part, Eusebio Miguel Rojas, who faces a three-year suspension, disagreed with the decision and claimed to be the victim of the aggression. As per the regulations, both Rojas and Sánchez will exercise their right to appeal.
Eriel Sánchez's Perspective: "I Don't Justify Wrongdoing, But My Side Should Be Heard"
In a previous interview with Escambray, Sánchez shared his account of the events. He stated that the incident originated from a controversial play in the eighth inning, where an umpire initially scored a run and later reversed the decision. Although the outcome favored Sancti Spíritus, Sánchez confronted Rojas over what he perceived as biased conduct. The verbal exchange escalated, and according to Sánchez, Rojas provoked him into a fight.
"About 30 minutes later, Rojas barged into my office, swung at me, and I reacted. There was a scuffle, and he hit a table. I used a stick for defense, but it wasn't a bat, as some claim online," Sánchez detailed. While acknowledging his responsibility, he denied any intention to harm Rojas deliberately. "I have never in my life attempted to harm someone's well-being," he emphasized, urging for an objective evaluation of the incident rather than a public reprimand.
Uncertainty in Gallos' Leadership
With Eriel Sánchez's definitive exit, the pressing question is who will take over the management of the Sancti Spíritus team for the remainder of the season. Provincial Director of Sports, Laidalí Santana, noted that a decision has not yet been made. "Given the nature and impact of the incident, an evaluative process that will take some days is necessary," she explained. It has been confirmed that veteran player Frederich Cepeda Cruz will not assume the role. "I don't like managing, and I won't do it," he affirmed, reiterating his longstanding stance.
A Permanent Departure
Beyond the imposed suspension, the most significant aspect is Eriel Sánchez's personal decision to permanently leave baseball management. His choice underscores the profound impact of recent events on his professional life.
FAQs on Eriel Sánchez's Decision and Cuban Baseball
Why did Eriel Sánchez decide to retire permanently?
Eriel Sánchez decided to retire permanently due to feeling ashamed and embarrassed by the recent incident and the subsequent suspension, wanting to protect his hard-earned reputation.
What were the consequences for Eusebio Miguel Rojas?
Eusebio Miguel Rojas received a three-year suspension from the competitive system, as he was involved in the altercation with Eriel Sánchez.
What triggered the altercation between Sánchez and Rojas?
The altercation was triggered by a controversial play during a game, which led to a heated exchange between Sánchez and Rojas, culminating in a physical confrontation.