In a groundbreaking moment for Cuban baseball, seven Cuban players are on the brink of making history by signing with teams in the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPB). Alfredo Despaigne, Yasiel González, José Noroña, Fher Cejas, Andy Vargas, Frank Herrera, and Yankiel Mauris are finalizing their contracts, as confirmed by sports journalist Francys Romero.
This marks the first time Cuban baseball players will compete in a professional league in mainland China, a milestone achieved through the efforts of the Cuban Baseball and Softball Federation (FCBS).
Summer Tournament in Shanghai
The seven athletes will join the CPB's summer tournament, featuring a 48-game schedule set to begin in Shanghai on August 13. Of the six teams participating, four will advance to the postseason, which kicks off on September 21. The teams include the Beijing Dragons, Shanghai Orcas, Shenzhen Bluesox, Xiamen Dolphins, Fuzhou Sea Knights, and Changsha Want Want.
Emerging League with Expanding Horizons
Established in September 2025, the CPB is a relatively new league. It held its inaugural draft in November of the same year and launched its first season on January 1, 2026, with five teams. The league has since expanded to six teams for the summer session.
Alfredo Despaigne: A Star Amongst the Group
The most renowned name among the Cuban contingent is Alfredo Despaigne, known as one of the most powerful hitters in modern Cuban baseball. Despaigne boasts a long career in Japan's professional league (NPB), having played nearly a decade with the Chiba Lotte Marines and Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, amassing over 180 home runs.
In Cuba, Despaigne set the regular-season home run record in the National Series with 35 homers in 2012 and recently represented Cuba in the VI World Baseball Classic this March.
Talent Exportation Strategy
The FCBS has actively pursued talent exportation throughout 2026, including Cuba's return to the Caribbean Series held in Caracas earlier this year and facilitating contracts for several young talents with Major League Baseball organizations.
The other six players—González, Noroña, Cejas, Vargas, Herrera, and Mauris—are part of the federation's strategy to manage Cuban athletes' entry into international leagues. While they may not have Despaigne's international profile, their participation is a significant step in broadening Cuban baseball's global reach.
According to Romero, the agreements are in the final stages, and the seven Cuban players are expected to join the CPB just in time for the summer phase in Shanghai.
Understanding the Impact of Cuban Players in the CPB
Why is the participation of Cuban players in the CPB significant?
This participation is significant as it marks the first time Cuban players will compete in a professional league in mainland China, showcasing the global expansion of Cuban baseball talent.
Who is the most notable Cuban player joining the CPB?
Alfredo Despaigne is the most notable player, renowned for his powerful hitting and extensive career in Japan's NPB.
What is the Cuban Baseball and Softball Federation's strategy for 2026?
The FCBS has been focused on exporting talent, facilitating participation in international events like the Caribbean Series, and securing contracts with Major League Baseball organizations.