Cuban manager Noelvis González has kicked off his Asian journey on a high note: on Monday, the Beijing CP Loongs triumphed over the Shanghai Orcas with a 4-2 win in the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPB), as reported by Pelota Cubana on social media.
The game was locked in a 2-2 tie until the seventh inning, when the team led by the Holguín native seized control. Two runs in that inning solidified their decisive lead.
The day highlighted the collective talent of the Cuban players on the team, especially within the bullpen, where three newly joined pitchers delivered strong performances despite the challenges posed by the time zone adjustment.
Frank Herrera was the first reliever out of the bullpen in the seventh inning, delivering a flawless performance: no hits, no runs, and two strikeouts, earning his first hold in Chinese baseball.
Spotlight on Cuban Pitchers
Yankiel Mauris from Sancti Spíritus took over in the eighth inning and matched his compatriot's achievement: no hits and two strikeouts, also securing a hold in his CPB debut.
The ninth inning belonged to Fher Cejas, who retired all three batters he faced in order and earned the save, making him the first Cuban pitcher to achieve such a feat in this Asian tournament's history.
A celebratory photo shared by Pelota Cubana captures González with Cejas, Herrera, Mauris, and Andy Cosme—the five Cuban players on the Loongs' roster.
Historic Moment for Cuban Baseball
This participation marks a historic moment for Cuban baseball in China: nine players from the island are competing in the CPB 2026, split between the Beijing CP Loongs and the Xiamen Dolphins.
Just a day before, Andy Vargas and Pavel Hernández made their debut with the Xiamen Dolphins, claiming a 7-3 victory over the Changsha WantWant, signaling a promising start for the Cuban contingent in the tournament.
González, known for pioneering sabermetrics in Cuban baseball, brings his experience as the manager of the Holguín Cachorros in the National Series and as a bench coach for Team Cuba in the VI World Baseball Classic to the CPB.
The CPB 2026 regular season features 45 games across six teams, with the top four advancing to the playoffs set to begin on September 26.
Cuban Baseball Success in China
Who is Noelvis González?
Noelvis González is a Cuban baseball manager known for his pioneering use of sabermetrics in Cuban baseball. He has managed the Holguín Cachorros in the National Series and served as a bench coach for Team Cuba in the VI World Baseball Classic.
How did the Cuban pitchers perform in the game?
The Cuban pitchers performed exceptionally well. Frank Herrera, Yankiel Mauris, and Fher Cejas each delivered scoreless innings with multiple strikeouts, contributing significantly to the team's victory.
What is the significance of this victory for Cuban baseball?
This victory highlights the successful integration of Cuban players in the Chinese Professional Baseball League, showcasing their talent and opening new opportunities for Cuban baseball on an international stage.