Cuban right-handed pitcher Naikys Piedra is holding a showcase for Major League Baseball scouts in Merida, Mexico. According to Francys Romero, the showcase, scheduled for September 5, will have around 20 MLB organizations in attendance.
Cuban right-hander Naikys Piedra (22) will have a showcase this September 5 in Merida, Mexico.
About 20 MLB organizations have confirmed attendance. pic.twitter.com/UTKLxORY1j
— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) August 29, 2024
The 22-year-old has played two seasons in the Cuban National Series for the Cocodrilos de Matanzas. Across those two years, Piedra is 3-5 with a 5.00 ERA in 22 games. In 45 total innings, the righty has 38 strikeouts and 46 walks.
Piedra also appeared for team Cuba in the U-23 Pan American Championship from November 25-30 in Nicaragua. He pitched in two games and allowed two runs and three walks in one inning.
The Cuban pitcher became a free agent and was eligible to be signed by an MLB team in 2021. Piedra’s fastball is between 90 and 94 mph. His six-foot-four frame allows him to develop complementary pitches, a curveball, and a changeup.
The young righty is just beginning his professional career and hopes to make some waves with his showcase on September 5. If Piedra can impress teams with his size and velocity, he could earn an MLB international contract, which he has been after since becoming a free agent in 2021. The teams team attending the showcase have yet to be announced.
