Little League International reaches historic agreement in Cuba
By Tab Bamford
Baseball has long been a change agent in society. Since Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in 1947 the diamond has helped tackle many of the country’s struggles.
In December, Major League Baseball and the MLBPA announced a new transfer agreement with the Cuban Baseball Federation. That deal should open more doors for Cuban players to play professional baseball in the United States.
Our Jesus Ortiz spoke with former White Sox and Yankees pitcher José Contreras about the significance of that agreement.
On Wednesday, another significant step was taken to encourage Cuban kids to pursue their baseball dreams.
La #FCB y las Pequeñas Ligas del Béisbol Internacional rubricaron hoy el Memorando de Entendimiento que permitirá a #Cuba incorporarse a los eventos del Caribe y a la Serie Mundial. #EEUU #LittleLeague. Aquí las imágenes del histórico momento!!! https://t.co/v9qlReoGnC pic.twitter.com/KPs7K96Smx
— JIT DIGITAL (@jit_digital) March 6, 2019
At a historic press conference in Havana, Little League International president Stephen D. Keener announced LLI has reached a memo of understanding with the Cuban Baseball Federation that will allow Cuban teams to participate in the regional playoffs and, potentially, the Little League World Series.
@LittleLeague International thanks @CubanaBeisbol President Higinio Velez and @CastroWBSC for the warm hospitality in Havana today and for the partnership that will afford Cuban children the benefits of Little League Baseball for many years to come.. pic.twitter.com/J9t7JObJkk
— Steve Keener (@littleleagueceo) March 6, 2019
On Friday Keener joined us on La Vida Baseball Live to talk about this historic agreement. Fans who are interested in donating equipment, time or money can learn more by visiting Pitch In For Baseball.
Featured / Inset Image: Yamil Lage / AFP / Getty Images