Havana, July 21 (ACN) – Pedro Medina Ayón has died today, and the words come painfully. It’s difficult to accept, to imagine Cuban baseball without his presence, without the steady walk of a man accustomed to the pressure of major games and the humility of ordinary days.
Pedro was many things. «El Médico» (The Doctor), with his invisible coat of baseball wisdom; «The Hero of Edmonton,» for that legendary hit that made the Island tremble in 1981. But above all, he was a good man – loyal, upright. One of those not made from a mould, but by destiny.
Those who knew him understand he spoke little but said much. That he could give you a lesson in baseball – and in life – with a brief phrase between sips of coffee and a smile. That his greatness never needed fanfare. That fame never changed his soul.
Today, in the neighbourhood, at Latinoamericano Stadium, on any street corner where dreams are still spun around rag balls, someone will speak his name with moist eyes. Because Pedro was an idol, but also one of us. A Cuban who grew up among bats and alleyways, who loved his land, who never considered himself above anyone.
With him passes an era. That time when black-and-white televisions lit up with his home runs, when his silhouette behind home plate felt as familiar as a beloved uncle. A captain without an armband, a teacher without a podium, a warrior without a shield – he never sought recognition, yet earned it all.
Baseball is life’s metaphor, and Pedro played both with honour. He never hid in the dugout, feared the final at-bat, and always took the field with heart, leading the way.
Today, from some corner of the heavens, he surely reviews statistics, recalls stories, and casts a tender gaze upon this land of his that will mourn him deeply.
We’re left with his feats, the numbers, the championships, the headlines. But most of all, we’re left with his example, his simplicity, the echo of his laughter, the warmth of his embrace.
Goodbye, Pedro. Thank you so much. This Island, as in 1981, trembles again. But now with sorrow.
