Major League Baseball players are recognized in Puerto Plata and hold children’s clinics

PUERTO PLATA.– A total of ten Dominican and Puerto Rican baseball players, both active and retired from Major League Baseball, were recognized for their legacy, trajectory, and sustained support for the activities of the Puerto Plata International Sport Foundation, during the celebration of the fifth edition of the baseball clinic for children in this province.

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The event was organized by the foundation directed by engineer Chito Polo and Frank Alameda, who presented recognition plaques to the current two-time World Series champion Teoscar Hernández, as well as former players José Mesa, Jean Segura, Al Reyes, Ángel Castro, D’Angelo Jiménez, Joel Peralta and Rubén Sierra. Natives of Puerto Plata Carlos Paulino and Edgar Santana were also honored. The activities corresponding to the 5th Humanitarian and Sports Clinics “Achieving Dreams” began on Friday the 16th with beach cleaning days, delivery of community aid in sectors of the lower part of the city and a women’s soccer match between the local team Sexy Girls and the women’s selection of the New York Police. Prior to that meeting, Nelson Cruz, general manager of the Dominican team that will participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, was recognized for his continuous support of the foundation’s initiatives during its five years of existence. In attendance at the event were former major leaguers Bartolo Colón, Carlos Martínez and Jhonny Brito, as well as the recently signed Wandy Asigen, in addition to a large group of prospects from Major League organizations from Puerto Plata. “This is the fifth installment of an activity that has already become an annual tradition, where professional baseball players share their experiences and knowledge, inspiring many young people from Puerto Plata who dream of reaching professional baseball,” expressed Chito Polo. He indicated that more than 500 children, belonging to different baseball leagues in the province, participated in specialized clinics and received sports equipment donated by the foundation, which has generated a positive and sustained impact on the community. During the day, an emotional tribute was also paid to former Major League pitcher Octavio Dotel, the promoter of this initiative, who died in the air tragedy that occurred in April 2025. In his honor, a commemorative painting was presented that will be given to his family. From his side, Frank Alameda highlighted the importance of continuing to develop this type of activities, aimed at promoting sports, strengthening values, and offering young people spaces for growth and learning.