MEXICO CITY – Before he slugged his way to MVP honors at the 2025 Liga Mexicana de Beisbol All-Star Game, Leones de Yucatán first baseman and designated hitter Art Charles made his presence known at the league’s pregame gala, held just steps from Estadio Alfredo Harp Helú.
With the WBC trophy gleaming in the background and the league celebrating its 100th anniversary, Charles sat down with World Baseball Network’s Matthew Tallarini for a series of conversations that touched on everything from leadership to legacy, team culture, and his appreciation for Mexican baseball.
For a player who’s seen plenty of baseball on both sides of the border, the historic nature of this year’s All-Star event wasn’t lost on Charles. “It’s always a blessing to be around the game and be part of something bigger than yourself,” he said.
“It’s cool. It’s great for the league,” Charles said of Diablos Rojos del México hosting the All-Star festivities in the capital.
For Charles, the moment was more than just ceremonial. Just days later, he delivered a 3-for-3 performance in the All-Star Game itself — launching a towering two-run homer, ripping a triple, and sparking the Mexico National Team’s 4-3 comeback victory over the LMB All-Stars. His efforts earned him the game’s Most Valuable Player award.
But his focus, even in the spotlight, remained on team goals and the bigger picture.
“We’re staying present. We’re fighting every day,” Charles said, when asked about Yucatán’s mindset heading into the second half of the season. “We’ve got to stay locked in and just do what we know how to do.”
Charles also reflected on the importance of veteran leadership in the Leones’ clubhouse — especially the presence of Yadir Drake, who remains one of the LMB’s most consistent hitters.
“He could wake up and get three hits right now,” Charles said with a laugh. “That’s just the player he is… a special talent. And he definitely deserves to be here, and it shows.”
As the Liga Mexicana de Beisbol pushes forward into its second century, players like Art Charles embody the evolving identity of the league: power hitters with professional polish, who respect the roots of the game while embracing its global reach.
And with Charles helping lead the charge, don’t count out the Leones de Yucatán just yet.
