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This campaign begins with a marked presence of players with experience in Major Leagues and top-tier prospects. The season is dedicated to the Cooperstown immortal Juan Marichal. Here’s a look at the six teams taking the field today with the mission of conquering winter glory:Tigres del Licey
The current runners-up, managed by Gilbert Gómez and under the management of Audo Vicente, are betting on consistency. From the start, they will have figures like Mel Rojas Jr., Emilio Bonifacio, Gustavo Núñez and MLB reinforcement Griffin Conine.In pitching, veteran César Valdés leads a rotation that promises dominance from the start.
Águilas Cibaeñas
With a complete restructuring, the Eagles start a new era under the direction of René Francisco, Gián Guzmán (general manager) and Luis “Pipe” Urueta (manager).Among their key players are Leody Taveras, Juan Lagares, Aderlín Rodríguez (MVP of last tournament) and the Major League starter Triston McKenzie.
Leones del Escogido
The defending champions, the Leones del Escogido, present a new management team headed by Carlos Peña as manager and Alex Cintrón as mánager.Their roster includes figures like Alexander Canario, César Prieto, Martín Maldonado and veterans of the caliber of Sócrates Brito, Yamaico Navarro and Zoilo Almonte.
Toros del Este
The Toros del Este debut a new manager in Víctor Estévez, keeping Jesús Mejía as general manager.Among their starters are Eloy Jiménez, Jhonkensy Noel, Brayan De La Cruz and the number one pick from the last draft, Felnin Celestén.
Estrellas Orientales
With Ángel Ovalles as the new manager and Fernando Tatis in charge, the Estrellas are betting on a mix of veterans and young players.Their offense is led by Miguel Sanó, Eugy Rosario, Rodolfo Castro, and Raimel Tapia.
Gigantes del Cibao
The Gigantes del Cibao, led by Alfredo Acebal Rizek as President of Operations and General Manager, and José Leger as manager, arrive with an almost completely renewed structure.
“We have very high expectations; it will be a year of great competitiveness among the six teams,” said Acebal Rizek during the press conference of the season dedicated to Juan Marichal.
In addition, he celebrated the official inclusion of the Serie del Cibao in New York in the calendar, noting that “it is a great opportunity for Dominicans in the U.S. to enjoy the talent of their homeland.”
