For the first time in his career Nolan Arenado will play in the winter leagues. The Cuban -American infielder, who is also of Puerto Rican descent has decided to sign with the historic Puerto Rican Winter League ballclub, the Leones de Ponce.
After a couple of subpar seasons due to injuries with the St. Louis Cardinals, Arenado is in the midst of a career renaissance with the Arizona Diamondbacks. In 438 trips to the plate this season the third baseman is hitting .240 with 21 doubles, 21 homeruns and 65 runs batted in, while still playing his usual impeccable defense.
Arenado, who has hinted in playing for Puerto Rico for years now has finally decided to play in the Caribbean league. In this edition of the World Baseball Classic Arenado played third base for Puerto Rico after playing for the United States in the two previous editions of the tournament.
Cubans that have been confirmed for the Winter Leagues:
Liga ARCO Mexicana del Pacífico:
Orlando Martínez OF (Tomateros de Culiacán)
Albert Lara IF (Algodoneros de Guasave)
Yadir Drake IF-OF (Águilas de Mexicali)
Elían Leyva RHP (Mayos de Navojoa)
Aledmys Díaz IF (Yaquis de Ciudad Obregón)
LIDOM:
Richard Guasch RHP (Estrellas Orientales)
Roenis Elías LHP (Estrellas Orientales)
Andy Ibáñez IF (Leones del Escogido)
Andrew Pérez LHP (Tigres del Licey)*
Julio Robaina LHP (Tigres del Licey)
Vladimir Gutierrez RHP (Tigres del Licey)
Víctor Mesa Jr OF (Tigres del Licey)
Lázaro Montes OF (Gigantes del Cibao)
LVBP:
Diosbel Arias IF (Bravos de Margarita)
José Ramón Rodríguez RHP (Caribes de Anzoátegui)
LBPRC:
Dyan Jorge IF (Senadores de San Juan)
Yanquiel Fernández OF (Criollos de Caguas)
Nolan Arenado IF (Leones de Ponce)