Yadir Drake commented a few days ago on the Pelota Cubana USA Show that his participation in the 2026 World Classic is currently in doubt. In the last Premier 12, the Matanzas native tested positive for a banned substance and is currently appealing the result.
Drake claims he was undergoing medication treatment and that his results came out in this test. His appeal according to him, includes documents from his current team and the Mexican League, highlighting his legal use of the substance during his time in the league. Initially, the sanction imposed was for one year, giving him time to participate in the 2026 WBC, but now it will be for two years if his appeal is unsuccessful.
Losing Drake would be a big blow to Cuba’s offense and versatility, due to the fact that the slugger can play first base, right field and also DH. This would put a lot of pressure on Ariel Martínez to fill Drake’s role on the squad. The “Panther” as he is called by the Cuban faithful is a leader in the clubhouse as well as on the field. Last WBC he hit a scorching .381 and knocked in two runs during the tournament.
This season in the Liga Mexicana de Béisbol with the Leones de Yucatán he is hitting a .379 with 15 homeruns, 59 runs batted in and slashing .441/.625/1.066. He was selected to the league’s All-Star Game this season. Drake has also seen action with Nippon-Ham Fighters of the NPB and in the Los Angeles Dodgers minor league system reaching as high as Double-A during his time with the organization.