The Liga de Béisbol Profesional Nacional (LBPN) is approaching its 20-year anniversary season as the top level of professional baseball in Nicaragua. Since being established in 2004, the league has rejuvenated the excitement for professional baseball in Nicaragua.
On June 28, the league’s board members and representatives from four of the five teams (Leones de Leon was absent) met to prepare for the Claro Championship. The start date for the 24-25 season is tentatively scheduled for the last week of October.
Among the many topics discussed at these meetings, the Nicaraguan national player draft for the league was of significant focus. The draft is scheduled for September 2024 after the conclusion of the GPO championships so that all eligible players are afforded equal opportunity.
In addition, there was talk about the number of foreign players each team should be allowed to carry on its roster. Teams were proposed to have a minimum of 10 foreign players with no maximum. July 30 has been set as the deadline to receive final applications to acquire a franchise spot.
The LBPN reestablished professional baseball in Nicaragua in 2004 after the original league disbanded in 1967. The league currently has five teams, with Indios del Boer having the most league championships with nine. At the same time, Gigantes de Rivas are the most recent champions, hoisting their fifth trophy last season. Great players in the league’s history include Wuillians Vasquez, Cheslor Cuthbert, and Wilton Lopez.
The LBPN’s reestablishing baseball in Nicaragua has been a great success, and the 2024-25 20th anniversary season is sure to be a must-follow.
Photo Credit: Benjamin Alegria #1 of Team Nicaragua reacts after a base hit during the third inning. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
