The ongoing decline of Cuba's baseball infrastructure was on full display this Saturday when a scheduled match between Pinar del Río and Granma, part of the 64th National Series, was called off. The cancellation resulted from players being unable to sleep through the night due to an extended power outage at their hotel.
Sports journalist Carlos Hernández Luján was the first to report the suspension, noting that both teams' ability to rest was severely impacted by a prolonged electrical failure at the Guacanayabo Hotel in Manzanillo.
Shortly thereafter, the specialized page Yoel al Strike elaborated on the situation, explaining that the blackout "hindered the athletes' sleep," necessitating the rescheduling of the game, which was supposed to occur at the 26 de Diciembre Stadium in Campechuela. As a result, a doubleheader is slated for Sunday, starting at 10:00 a.m.
Official Media Omits Outage Cause
Interestingly, CMKX Radio Bayamo confirmed the postponement but conspicuously left out the actual reason. Their official statement merely noted the game's rescheduling, failing to mention the electrical issues or their impact on the athletes.
This lack of transparency starkly contrasts with accounts from independent journalists and sports websites, which clearly disclosed the real cause behind the delay.
Recurring Issues in Cuban Baseball
This incident follows closely on the heels of another extraordinary event in the National Series. A game between Matanzas and Camagüey was previously suspended after a massive theft occurred in the dugout and locker room of the Yumurino team, leaving several players without belongings or sports equipment.
That suspension was deemed "unacceptable" by teams and local media alike, raising serious concerns about institutional deterioration, security lapses, and the inability of the sports system to safeguard its athletes.
With games now being halted due to power outages that prevent the minimum rest required for competition, the deepening crisis and precariousness of Cuban baseball is becoming increasingly evident. Players are left in hotels without electricity, stadiums offer no protection, and the entire sports schedule teeters on the brink amid problems unrelated to the actual game.
Understanding the Crisis in Cuban Baseball
What caused the suspension of the Pinar del Río vs. Granma game?
The game was suspended because players were unable to sleep due to a prolonged power outage at their hotel.
How did official media report the game's postponement?
Official media confirmed the postponement but did not mention the power outage, only stating that the game was rescheduled.
What other issues have affected the Cuban National Series recently?
Recently, a game between Matanzas and Camagüey was suspended due to a massive theft in the dugout and locker room, leaving players without their belongings.