Andy Pagés, one of the brightest young stars on the Los Angeles Dodgers roster, faces the bittersweet reality of playing in the World Series without the presence of his beloved family. His parents and sister remain in Cuba, unable to travel due to the stringent political restrictions imposed by the regime.
The 24-year-old outfielder shared with the Los Angeles Times that he is only able to connect with his family "a couple of times a week," limited by the unreliable electricity and internet access on the island. "It's tough, but we've learned to cope," stated Pagés, who hasn't reunited with his family since a fleeting visit to Cuba in 2023, after seven long years apart.
Raised in Mantua, located in Pinar del Río province, Pagés' journey to baseball prominence began with his father, a carpenter, crafting the bats that would launch his career. At the age of 15, he made the courageous decision to leave Cuba to pursue a professional baseball career, a path that took him across several Caribbean nations before signing with the Dodgers in 2018.
Achievements and Accolades
Since joining the Dodgers, Pagés has shown remarkable progress. By 2025, he had a standout season, hitting 27 home runs, driving in 86 runs, and maintaining a .272 batting average, solidifying his role as a key player in the Dodgers' lineup. His impressive performance earned him the Dodgers' "Heart & Hustle" award, given by the MLB Players Association to players who exemplify the spirit of the game on and off the field.
Pagés made MLB history by becoming just the third Cuban-born player to achieve a season with at least 25 home runs and 80 RBIs before turning 25, joining the ranks of Yordan Álvarez and José Canseco. His power at the plate was further showcased with a streak of consecutive home runs in July, establishing himself as one of the Dodgers' most consistent hitters.
The Struggles of Cuban Athletes
Pagés' story is emblematic of the challenges faced by many Cuban athletes excelling abroad who cannot share their success with family due to restrictive migration policies and political control. While his teammates celebrate with their loved ones, Pagés can only toast from afar, as his family watches through a flickering television signal or an unstable internet connection.
With exceptional talent, discipline, and a maturity beyond his years, Andy Pagés has not only earned the admiration of Dodgers fans but also the affection of Cubans who see him as a symbol of perseverance and hope.
Understanding the Impact of Political Restrictions on Cuban Athletes
Why can't Andy Pagés' family travel to see him play?
The Cuban government imposes strict political restrictions that prevent many citizens from traveling abroad, making it difficult for families like Pagés' to reunite.
What awards has Andy Pagés received during his career?
Andy Pagés received the "Heart & Hustle" award from the Dodgers, recognizing players who embody the values of baseball both on and off the field.
How has Andy Pagés' performance been recognized in MLB history?
Pagés became the third Cuban-born player to achieve a season with at least 25 home runs and 80 RBIs before turning 25, joining Yordan Álvarez and José Canseco in this milestone.