In the 2023 World Baseball Classic, Cuba reached the semi-final before losing to the United States. Armando Johnson managed the team in the World Baseball Classic and also led Cuba in the 2024 Premier12. He will not manage the team in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, and, according to Cuban Baseball Digest, there are now three finalists to lead the team.
“A source very close to the situation has revealed to me that Noelvis González, Michel Enríquez, and Germán Mesa are the three finalists for the position of manager in the upcoming World Baseball Classic for Cuba,” wrote Yusseff Diaz. “González looms as the favorite to assume the position, with Enríquez following in a close second.”
Cuban Baseball Digest also revealed that if Gonález is named manager, Enríquez could be on his staff.
“The selection of González would be a breath of fresh air and a step forward for Cuba,” wrote Diaz. “González is an experienced in-game manager who is up-to-date in baseball’s current technologies and sabermetrics. The native of Holguín, Cuba, is also well respected by baseball players on and off the island and signals progression for the FCB. González sources say it is open to including Enríquez on his staff if named manager.”
After Cuba selects its manager, the country will have to build its team for the tournament. There is plenty of talent that could join the team as they look to win their first World Baseball Classic.
The most notable name on Cuba’s team in 2023 was Luis Robert Jr. Although he was an All-Star in 2023, he is not enough for Cuba to expect a Gold Medal. Randy Arozarena was born in Cuba, but he represents Mexico in the World Baseball Classic. However, there are still star players Cuba could target.
The biggest name for Cuba to recruit is Yordan Alvarez. The star slugger is a three-time All-Star and Silver Slugger Award winner. His participation could also encourage players like Aroldis Chapman, Lourdes Gurriel Jr., and Adolis Garcia to join the team. Garcia wanted to play for Cuba in 2023 but did not want to be away from spring training for too long.
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