The 64th National Baseball Series of Cuba, which begins next 2nd September, is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and competitive competitions of recent years.

The Cuban league, although without the quality of yesteryear, has proven to be a breeding ground for talent and passion for the sport, and this season will be no exception.

Based on recent analysis, historical results and the current context, these are the teams that are shaping up to be the great favourites for the title.

1- Santiago de Cuba: Tradition and Offensive Power.

Santiago de Cuba has always been one of the most emblematic and feared teams in Cuban baseball. With a history full of triumphs, their team is characterised by a powerful offence and an aggressive mentality on the diamond.

Recent historical results show that they can score and produce runs in large volumes, as seen in games where they reached double digits in hits.

Their rivalry with Industriales will be one of the incentives of the tournament this year as both teams are among the favourites for the title.

Santiago is a team with a lot of grit and experience in key moments. Santiago is thirsty for victory.

2- Industriales: The Giant of the Capital.

Industriales, the capital’s team, is synonymous with Baseball in Cuba. Although they have had recent ups and downs and have not won since the 49th series, their name always resonates among the favourites. They have a very complete lineup and a structure that allows them to rely on talented young players.

Their much-improved offence, Their challenge will be to maintain consistency over the long season and for their pitching, some of the most talented in the country despite its youth, to deliver for them.

The Blues will not take long to win a title.

3- Pinar del Río: Solidity and Youth.

Pinar del Río is another team that has historically been a strong contender.
The province boasts a solid pool of talent and a disciplined style of play in addition to very good managerial work.

If they can count on the majority of their players (I excluded Libán Moinelo and Raidel Martinez) it is understandable that after a demanding season in Japan they will need to rest, they have all the tools to go far.

4. Granma: Determination and Heart.

Granma always arrive hungry for victory. They are known for their intense play. The climate in Granma for September, with average maximum temperatures that can exceed 30°C, will demand a lot from their endurance and from the rivals who play there.

However, they are a team that thrives on adversity. Their ability to play under pressure and close out tight series makes them an uncomfortable opponent for any rival.

5. Las Tunas: The Defending Champions.
As the current national champions, Las Tunas arrive as the team to beat. They have demonstrated a first-class sports programme and an incredible ability to develop key players.

Their work in the bullpen and their orderly offence will be their greatest weapons in attempting to repeat as champions.
6. Villa Clara, Matanzas, Artemisa, Mayabeque and Guantánamo.

Teams like Villa Clara and Matanzas can never be underestimated.

Both in my opinion have the potential to be among the top eight. Matanzas, to confirm they remain one of the most stable in recent years with a great roster. Villa Clara, to regain the top positions in our Baseball, which they have not achieved for more than four series, now with young talent obliged to impose itself in our league.

There are three other teams with chances of qualification: the Mayabeque, Artemisa and Guantánamo squads, the latter with a better roster now, were just one step away from the ticket last year.

Key Factors for the Season.

1. The Climate: September is a hot and rainy month in Cuba. It will be a tough month for playing at 2 pm, which will demand superior physical effort from the athletes.

The teams with better pitching and bullpen depth will be the ones best able to withstand the load of games per week, 5 in total.

2. The Mentality: Experience in a long season is crucial. Teams like Las Tunas and Granma know what it takes to win and that weighs in the decisive moments.

3. Injuries, Reinforcements, Pitching Management and Contracts Abroad.

A team’s ability to absorb the loss of a star player or integrate quality reinforcements, manage its key pitching figures can make the difference between being a favourite and being a champion.

In my opinion, Santiago de Cuba and Industriales are in the lead due to tradition, offensive power and excellent rosters, but Las Tunas has the champion’s title and the mentality to defend it.

Pinar del Río, Matanzas and Granma are serious contenders that can complicate life for anyone.

In Baseball, like in no other sport, anything can happen.

One thing is certain:
The 64th series will be very even and contested; we will be treated to a baseball spectacle that promises strong emotions from the first pitch.
May the best team win