Cuban heritage will be well represented in MLB’s Wild Card Round, with nine players spread across six teams. From power hitters to starting pitchers and late-inning relievers, the group brings a range of talent to the opening stage of the postseason.
The Houston Astros feature infielder Raynel Delgado and designated hitter Yordan Álvarez (.316,42HR,106RBI). Álvarez’s power makes him a central figure in Houston’s lineup and the odds on favorite for the AL MVP, while Delgado, a surprise edition to the roster gives the club another Cuban representative on the infield.
Miguel Vargas (.250,33HR,93RBI, 22SB) after a career year represents the Chicago White Sox at third base. For Vargas, the postseason presents an opportunity to contribute on both sides of the ball as Chicago looks to advance.
The New York Yankees have two Cuban-American players in left-handed pitcher Carlos Rodón (7-3,2.67,91K’s) and infielder George Lombard Jr. Their presence highlights the contribution of players with Cuban family roots alongside those born on the island.
Aroldis Chapman (35SV,1.92) represents the Boston Red Sox. The veteran left-hander brings extensive postseason experience and the ability to generate strikeouts in situations where a single out can decide a game. His work could be particularly valuable in a short series, where protecting a narrow lead takes on added importance. Chapman will likely be a candidate for the Reliever of the Year in the American League.
The Atlanta Braves feature right-handers Víctor Mederos and Raisel Iglesias (34SV,2.55). Iglesias offers experience at the back end of the bullpen, while Mederos adds another potent Cuban arm to Atlanta’s pitching staff.
Left-handed reliever Adrián Morejón rounds out the group with the San Diego Padres. His ability to contribute out of the bullpen gives San Diego another option as it navigates the demands of postseason baseball.
Together, these nine players reflect the reach of Cuban baseball across the major leagues. Six clubs enter the Wild Card Round with a player of Cuban heritage, giving fans several teams and individual performances to follow. As the postseason begins, Álvarez, Delgado, Vargas, Rodón, Lombard, Chapman, Mederos, Iglesias and Morejón share the same objective: help their teams advance and keep their pursuit of a World Series championship alive.
