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Cuba Baseball Tours A Great Way to Travel & See This Tropical Paradise!

Baseball in cuba, spend a week in the forbidden isle doing what you love, playing baseball.

Cuba is a fascinating place to visit – Fascinating for many reasons, primarily that there are no Americans.  Because of the embargo it’s been forbidden for Americans to travel to Cuba for 4 decades.  The government does issue legal licenses to travel to Cuba for certain reasons.  One of these is for amateur athletic competition.  Because of this, I’ve been making trips to Cuba since 2002 that have included over a dozen baseball trips.  This is a rare opportunity for amateur baseball players to visit this beautiful island and meet with the Cuban people.

Cuba Adventures 2017 Recap

Baseball Adventures In the News!

Cuba adventures 2016 recap.

OUR BASEBALL TRIPS to CUBA

In the meantime, feel free to take a look at information on some of our most recent trips:

• Central Cuba-February 2015 – Camaguay, Las Tunas, Scanti Spiritus, Cienfuegos, Santa Clara – Sold Out
• Central & West Cuba-February-2015 – Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, and Havana – Cancelled .
• Central & West Cuba – Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, and Havana – Milton Breakers – NOV. 6-14, 2015 – (By Private Invitation Only) – Over .
• Central & West Cuba – Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, and Havana – FEB. 12-20, 2016 – Cancelled .
• East & West Cuba – Santiago, Guantanamo, Bayamo, Havana – FEB. 20-28, 2016 – (By Private Invitation Only) – Sold Out .

In January, 2015, the government announced – sweeping changes to the ‘license” requirements to visit Cuba.  In most cases, travelers do not need to file an application for a “specific” license.  A “general” license is allowed, so long as the traveler meets one or more of the so-called exceptions of categories, one of which is amateur athletic competition.  Click here for a link to the categories. 

Per the government regulations – these trips are for established teams only. You cannot join as a pool player. If you are interested in baseball in the Caribbean or other parts of the world please let me know.

• The Big Day Arrives – Trip Day to Cuba – What to Expect, What to Do, How to Be Ready
• Cuban Cigars – Everything you wanted to know but didn’t ask
• Trip Planning and Packing For Cuba – Some “do’s” some “don’ts” and some “maybes”
• FAQ’s: Top “Hits,” Runs & Errors
• Some would say Over the Top – Others would say “es beisbol”
• Conrado Marrero, the L.A. Dodgers, and Me – How I made the Big Leagues

Videos — Photos — Links

Videos — CLICK on PLAYLIST to see all 8 videos

Photos — We Have Several Albums

• Hotel Nacional 2010
• Classic Cars of Cuba
• Habana Vieja
• Havana Malecon
• Cuba Photos 2009
• Havana City
• Blair’s Cuba Photos 2004
• Cuba Baseball-2010
• Cienfuegos Cuba
• Hemingway House, Cuba
• Milton Breakers 2011

LINKS — to other Cuba Resources

• Map of Cuba
• Your Rights to Travel to Cuba

Play Baseball in Cuba!

Play Baseball in Cuba! – Baseball and Cuba go hand in hand.  It is one of the most prominent links between Cuba and the US.

This is a rare and limited chance to become a Baseball Ambassador – by dealing with civilized Cuban nationals on a grass roots level. Cuba has a very strong tie to the US in baseball and they play it very good on all levels.  They are pro American, very congenial hosts and a warm and friendly culture.  Cuba is a beautiful tropical country with low crime rate, high education standards and a healthy population.  The country is very safe to visit.

You’ll have opportunities to see many local sites and experience this Latin culture like you have never imagined before.  We’ll visit both rural and urban areas and stay in great hotels.  The food is mild Creole style, the baseball players are very good, the music is hypnotic, the architecture is beautiful, and the people are  hospitable and friendly.

These trips are a lot more than baseball. – You’ll be interacting with Cuban Nationals every day on various levels.  Each day is a full day agenda of baseball, tours and entertainment.  Just about everything is included on these trips, all baseball, license, airfare to and from Cuba, tours, travel visa, tour guide, all lodging, most meals and much more.  Each day is an adventure.  Once you’ve done one of these trips, your perspective on Cuba and the Cuban people will change.

There are 2 trips set up for this coming winter – Tentatively, one trip is set up for us to visit Eastern Cuba and surrounding areas (Santiago, Guantanamo, Bayamo) and Havana.  The second trip is to begin in the resort and historical area of Cienfuegos in Central Cuba and will end in Havana.  The Eastern Cuba trip is by invitation only and will be a sell out.  When the roster is full, you can get on a waiting list.  Some people will drop out between now and the trip date so spots will open up.  This trip is for players only with a limited number of support staff.  It is not a vacation for you and your wife, girlfriend, kids or whatever.

We’ve done over a dozen previous baseball trips to Cuba

Several of our Dodgertown West players participated in the first trip in the winter of 2001.  Each year, more players from the league from all over the country join us and several have continued to come each year.  We usually have at least 1 team each week for the 2 trips.  Your baseball playing ability is not an issue but we need good players to beat the Cubans.

The Cuban players are mostly retired professionals, Olympic or others who play in local leagues in their 40-70’s.  Many of these people played in the US and many knew some of our baseball coaches and baseball heroes. The games are much like many of our local amateur leagues.  The pitching is generally not too difficult, they are excellent fielders, fast of foot and usually all of them can hit well.  They also know how to play the game.  The baseball in Cuba is tough competition though, as they don’t like to lose so our losses are more than our wins.

We often play in their professional stadiums. – Other fields are local parks or smaller local stadium.  There are often special ceremonies, introductions and exchanges of gifts.  There will be anywhere from a couple of dozen to several hundreds of people in attendance at the games, sometimes even broadcast on the radio. In 2015, I as interviewed by the local media following our game in Las Tunas.

Prior Baseball Trips

The first trip in 2001 – was based in Havana the whole week where we had our first introductions to Cuba and Cuban baseball.  We played several teams around the Havana area in 3 different ballparks including Estadio Latino Americano.  Since then, we’ve made trips each winter to see new sights and old friends.

In the year 2002 – we expanded our horizons and began our trip in Central Cuba and ended up in Havana.  We played games in Cienfuegos, Abreus and Havana and used the Estadio 5th de Septiembre for most our games.  New friends were made and each day consisted of various tours, entertainment and events.

In the year 2003 – the first week played in Vinales, Pinar del Rio and Havana.  The second week included Trinidad, Scanti Spiritus, Cienfuegos, Abreus and Santa Clara.  In Pinar del Rio, we played in Estadio Capitain San Louis and in Santa Clara, we used Estadio Sandino.

In the year 2004 – the first week we played teams in the Havana area.  Teams were the Vetronos de Beisbol, Cortero and the Matanzas team.  The second week was in Cienfuegos, Santa Clara and back to Havana..

In year 2009 – we returned to Cienfuegos for 3 games.  From there we went to Havana for 3 more games. We’ve done trips in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014, and 2015.

Your license will allow you to – visit Cuba only for the purposes defined, to play baseball.  You are NOW allowed to spend money on souvenirs, gifts or other tourist activities.  There are NO spending limitations on what you can spend in Cuba. You are NOW permitted to bring merchandise, as accompanied baggage acquired in Cuba, not to exceed $400 in value, including no more than $100 in alcohol and tobacco products, plus as many periodicals, CD’s and artwork you want.

You should plan to bring some spending money to cover the cost of souvenirs, alcohol, tobacco, gifts, etc.  You’ll find prices in Cuba to be very reasonable.  They are now beginning to accept credit cards or travelers checks drawn on US banks.

You can find lot’s of information on Cuba at the Cuba Links Page .

Lots of information on Cuban baseball history at Cuba Beisbol

What You Need to Travel to Cuba is:

• A valid passport
• To meet all the travel restriction requirements indicated by the US Treasury and State Dept’s .
• Monetary Funds
• Availability
• Ability to play baseball
• To bring 6 new leather baseballs
• A good attitude

If you are interested in making a legal baseball trip to Cuba – please let me know as soon as possible.  A long lead time is needed as Cuba is a very popular vacation spot for everyone but Americans.

This website is dedicated to the memory of my friend, Dennis McCroskey, founder of Baseball Adventures.

Dennis passed away on January 7, 2015, but his passion for international baseball trips will live on, and many of the links and comments below are in regards to his prior trips. My name is Paul W. Raymond, and I will continue to organize and promote baseball trips to Cuba and other international countries.

Paul W. Raymond, Baseball Adventures 1001 Dove Street, Suite 190 Newport Beach, CA 92660

949-525-0920 949-955-2886 fax

email: [email protected]

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• HOME – Baseball in Cuba
•   SIGN UP FOR ONE OF OUR TRIPS:
• Milton Breakers Cuba Baseball Tour – NOV. 6-14, 2015
• Central & West Cuba (Cienfuegos) Baseball Tour FEB. 12-20, 2016
• East & West Cuba (Santiago) Baseball Tour FEB. 20-28, 2016
• Register Online for a Trip – Registration Form
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•   INFO & ARTICLES BY PAUL “PABLO” :
• Trip Planning for Cuba – What to Pack
• The Big Day Arrives – What to Expect
• Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s
• Cuban Cigars: Paul gives you “the whole cigar”
• Conrado Marrero, the L.A. Dodgers, and Me – How I made the Big Leagues
• CUBA LINKS – Pablo’s Picks

Other Trips

You missed some of our other recent trips that included Argentina, Costa Rica, Panama, Dominican Republic and Italy. We've also done trips to Tokyo and Cuba several times. You are welcome to get on the waiting list for any of these trips. Once space or information becomes available, you'll be notified. Look for more trips in the future to Paris, Scandinavia, South Africa, Singapore, Korea, Philippines, Germany, or the British Isles. Where else would you like to go? Hop on the band wagon and see the world. Read what others say about these trips.

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The Passion for Baseball in Cuba

Baseball in Cuba is much more than just a sport – it’s a national pastime and a cultural cornerstone. From the cradle to the grave, Cubans live and breathe “beisbol.” 

In this blog post, we’ll tell you all you need to know about baseball in Cuba, including its popularity and what to expect when attending a game.

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The Popularity of Baseball in Cuba

Baseball arrived in Cuba in the late 19th century, and it quickly captured the heart of the nation. The sport’s popularity exploded in the early 20th century and has held its status as Cuba’s number-one sport ever since. Football , or soccer, as known in North America, while growing in popularity, is yet to rival baseball’s standing.

How many people watch baseball in Cuba? 

An exact number is challenging to pin down due to limited data availability, but by observing daily life in Cuba , it becomes apparent that a significant proportion of the population follows the sport religiously. Whether in homes, local bars, or public parks, Cubans can often be found engrossed in the latest game, discussing recent results, or debating their favorite players. Radio broadcasts and newspaper reports also ensure that those without access to television don’t miss out on the action.

Watching Habits

Cubans’ passion for baseball isn’t confined to professional games alone. Amateur matches draw large crowds , with spectators often spilling over from the small stadiums onto nearby hillsides or rooftops. Likewise, street baseball games are a common sight, especially among young Cubans, who can turn any open space into a makeshift diamond.

Television broadcasts of the Cuban National Series, the premier baseball league in Cuba, are must-see events. The series consists of 16 teams, each representing a province of Cuba, and runs from late fall to spring. Tens of thousands of fans across the country tune in for each game, and during the playoffs, the number can rise significantly.

In the absence of real-time internet access, Cubans have developed unique ways to stay updated with their favorite sport. “El Paquete Semanal” (The Weekly Package), a 1 terabyte collection of digital content distributed via USB drives, often includes recent MLB games and highlights, enabling baseball aficionados to follow their favorite Cuban players who have made it to the major leagues.

Famous Cuban Baseball Players

Here are some of the most famous Cuban baseball players, who have made significant impacts both in Cuba and Major League Baseball:

• Minnie Miñoso – Born in Havana , Miñoso was one of the first black players in Major League Baseball and the first black Cuban in the league. He was a 9-time All-Star during his career, which spanned from the 1950s to the early 1980s.
• Luis Tiant – Tiant, known for his unorthodox delivery, had an illustrious career in the Major Leagues, especially with the Boston Red Sox. He had over 200 career wins and was a 3-time All-Star.
• Tony Oliva – Born in Pinar del Rio, Oliva had a distinguished career with the Minnesota Twins in the 1960s and 1970s. He was an 8-time All-Star and won three batting titles.
• Yasiel Puig – Born in Cienfuegos, Puig defected to Mexico in 2012 and then signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He won the NL Rookie of the Year award in 2013 and has been an electrifying presence in the league.
• Aroldis Chapman – Known for his record-breaking fastball, Chapman, from Holguin, has had a successful career in the Major Leagues, starring for teams such as the Cincinnati Reds and New York Yankees. He’s a multiple-time All-Star and won the World Series with the Cubs in 2016.
• José Abreu – Born in Cienfuegos , Abreu has been a dominant hitter since arriving in the Major Leagues in 2014. He won the AL Rookie of the Year award that year and has since been a consistent All-Star for the Chicago White Sox.

Playing Baseball in Cuba

In Cuba, children often learn to play baseball before they even start school. Community parks across the country host pickup games almost every day, fostering a grassroots baseball culture that has produced numerous international stars.

The country’s baseball infrastructure is extensive, with training schools, amateur leagues, and professional clubs providing a pathway for talented players to climb. The government-funded sports system plays a significant role in identifying and nurturing young talent. However, facilities are often rundown due to the country’s economic hardships, and equipment is in short supply.

Despite these challenges, the love for the sport and the dream of representing the nation or making it to the Major Leagues fuel young players’ determination. Many of baseball’s biggest stars, like Yasiel Puig and Aroldis Chapman, honed their skills on Cuba’s dusty diamonds.

Attending a Game in Cuba

Going to a baseball game in Cuba is an experience like no other. T he atmosphere is electric, with passionate fans creating a cacophony of sound that reverberates through the often-packed stadiums. Fans wave flags, blow horns, and drum on anything they can find. Spontaneous salsa dances break out in the stands, adding a uniquely Cuban flavor to the experience.

Unlike many professional sports events around the world, baseball games in Cuba are remarkably affordable . This accessibility has helped maintain baseball’s popularity among all sections of society, with fans from all walks of life coming together to cheer on their local team.

While the game is undoubtedly the main event, the spectacle extends beyond the field. Vendors meander through the stands, selling everything from Cuban sandwiches to tropical fruit, and from coffee to cold beer. The aroma of Cuban cuisine wafts through the air, blending with the scent of freshly cut grass and the earthy odor of the infield.

Cuban Baseball Stadiums

• Estadio Latinoamericano, Havana – Known as the “Colossus of Cerro,” Estadio Latinoamericano is the largest stadium in Cuba with a seating capacity of 55,000. It is home to the Industriales, the most successful team in the Cuban National Series . Tourists visiting this iconic stadium can experience a fantastic atmosphere, especially during a game against a rival team. You’ll need to buy tickets on the day of the game, usually a couple of hours before the start.
• Estadio Augusto Cesar Sandino, Santa Clara – Home to the Villa Clara team, this stadium has a capacity of around 20,000. It’s smaller than some of the larger venues, but it offers an intimate atmosphere that allows visitors to get closer to the action.
• Estadio Capitan San Luis, Pinar del Rio – This is the home ground of Pinar del Rio’s team and has a seating capacity of 10,000. With a lively crowd and a close proximity to Havana, it’s a great destination for baseball fans visiting Cuba.
• Estadio Guillermón Moncada, Santiago de Cuba – This stadium is located in the second-largest city in Cuba and is home to the Santiago de Cuba team. It has a capacity of 25,000 and is famous for its passionate fans.

Baseball in Cuban Culture and Society

Baseball’s influence in Cuba transcends the confines of the field, shaping the country’s culture and society in various ways. It’s a common language that unites Cubans and sparks conversations among strangers. The sport has also served as a source of national pride, particularly when the Cuban national team performs well in international competitions.

Baseball players in Cuba are more than just athletes; they’re national heroes. Whether it’s local legends from the National Series or MLB stars, their stories of success provide inspiration for the next generation of players.

The passion for baseball in Cuba

Baseball in Cuba is a passion that permeates every aspect of life. It’s a sport that brings communities together, creates national icons, and offers a source of pride and joy for its people. In a nation where resources are scarce, and hardships are many, baseball stands as a beacon of hope and a symbol of the resilient Cuban spirit. Whether you’re a fan of the sport or simply curious about Cuban culture, experiencing the vibrancy of Cuban baseball is a must-do.

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Splinter Park  park hosts Youth Baseball/Softball games throughout the Summer.

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In order to raise money for the program, the league administers the Cuba City Baseball/Softball Outfield Signs Program.

To participate as a sponsor, please fill out and return the Cuba City Baseball/Softball Outfield Signs Contract to one of the contacts listed.

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Contact Information

Address 108 North Main Street Cuba City, WI 53807

Phone:  (608) 744‑2152

Email:  cubacity@cubacitylightandwater.org

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108 North Main Street | Cuba City, WI 53807 | (608) 744‑2152

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I saw in their eyes something i was to see over and over in every part of the nation - a burning desire to go, to move, to get underway, anyplace, away from any here. they spoke quietly of how they wanted to go someday, to move about, free and unanchored, not toward something but away from something., john steinbeck, travels with charley, baseball tours, let our team of cuba experts help plan your trip.

At Cuba Travel Adventure Group we've been connected for many years with Cuban youth and college level baseball teams, coaches and programs both formally and informally at academies and on community fields throughout the country. CTAG groups have enjoyed playing our countries’ shared national pastime during the day, and getting to know our opponents at team dinners and one-to-one interaction in the evenings.  Teams and adult groups can play or watch baseball in Havana and outlying provinces with the option to connect for more intensive baseball competition to the Dominican Republic by special arrangements in conjunction with our D.R. baseball camp associates.

Baseball & Community Service

We plan every CTAG baseball trip with government officials and academy coaches and programs throughout the Cuban island.  We invite college athletic directors, coaches and families at schools throughout the U.S. to consider planning their once-in-a-lifetime Cuba baseball travel experience with us.

Community Service is a vital component of every CTAG baseball experience, encouraging participants to collect donations of specified baseball gear, medicines and other donations that will improve the lives of Cubans and Dominicans. In 2014 CTAG collected 1510 items of baseball gear and 50 pounds of medicines and following baseball workshops, demos and workshops personally delivered donated items through coaches to youngsters, families and through medical doctors in Cuba's small communities.  

During 2015, we planned and provided all infrastructure support, programs, experience and community service opportunities for an international service tour of Cuba involving 29 high-school age teens and four youth leaders from throughout the United States in Havana and the Provinces.

During 2016, we planned and provided Cuba baseball and community service and cultural travel for 26 Philadelphia area baseball players and their families. Please consider contributing to their future fundraising efforts for a subsequent youth baseball trip to Cuba.  Here is their website:  http://www.PhillyCubaBaseball.com

During 2016 we planned and provided baseball and community service and cultural travel for 35 Bay Area youth baseball players and their families in Havana and the provinces.  Photos from their travels can be found here:   http://www.cubatraveladventuresgroup.com/cuba-yes-trip-2016

Breaks the record for donated baseball gear

Http://www.phillycubabaseball.com.

ALL CTAG CUBA ADVENTURES FEATURE:

• All-inclusive pricing options

• Personalized group & individual trip planning drawing on decades of combined Cuba experience

• Travel with college-educated U.S. guides and English-speaking Cuban experts

• Air-conditioned buses and vans provide safe, comfortable transportation

• Legally compliant itinerary and experiences as required by the U.S. Treasury Department  

• Opportunities for charitable “giving back” at community centers and churches

• Friends, family "affinity group" and specialized youth sports group travel

ITINERARY SAMPLE | 2014 HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL TOUR 

Arrive in Havana

Walking tour of Old Havana

Dinner at hotel

Breakfast at hotel

Transfer for baseball practice to stadium and deliver donations with team  

Game #1 with Cuban team at stadium; cultural exchange following game

Restaurant for pizza

Visit optical tower,Old Havana model//chocolate museum//Old Havana church

Dinner at Paladar (private home restaurant)

Transfer to stadium for game #2

Lunch in Callejon de Hammel

Tour Callejon neighborhood; in-house visit

Enjoy Sunday folklorico dances at Callejon

Tour Parque Jose Marti and interact with youth players 

Free time (swim)

Dinner at hotel  

Transfer to Stadium for Game #3

Transfer to Old Havana and box lunch  

Walk the malecon and visit plazas of Old Havana; Chocolate museum

Transfer to Patronato//deliver donations; learn of Cuba's medical challenges and about religious practices            

Walk to Parque Jose Marti – Take part in youth baseball practices; donations

Transfer to Hotel/Snacks and free time/swim

Transfer to “La Cabana Fortress”

Watch cannon ceremony from the Morro-Cabana Castle

Dinner at a local paladar

Transfer back to Hotel 

Transfer and Tour Modern Havana with visits that include: meeting at Literacy Museum//Visit Casa del Nino y La Nina//Visit Havana University main campus and schools 

Lunch at a local paladar 

Transfer to Cojimar//visit Hemingway statue and haunts

Game #4 at Stadium

Deliver donations to youth teams

Transfer back to hotel//free time (swim)

Dinner at hotel / MAP

Transfer to stadium for Game #5

Game #5 (Clinic/Exhibition) at stadium//delivery of donations, gifts at the end of game//time with athletes and coaches

Transfer to A. Fuster artist community and Lunch

Tour artist’s neighborhood

Transfer to Old Havana

Crafts market, shopping//chat with locales in Parque Centrale//Hotel Nacionale and Museum of Revolution

Transfer to Hotel and free time

Transfer to Casa de La Amistad for farewell evening of music and banquet with Cuban athletes

08:30  breakfast at hotel, pack up & check out 

10:30  transfer to Havana International Airport 

ITINERARY| 2016 CUBA, YES!  BASEBALL & CULTURAL TOUR

Walking tour of with college Professor and guide of Old Havana and its four main Plazas:

Parque Central’s “baseball debates” Ernest Hemingway haunts of Old Havana at Hotel Ambos Mundos (Room #511), rooftop terrace, and Bar Floridita; Plaza Vieja , Camara Oscura , a birds-eye view of the massive restoration projects happening everywhere in Old Havana; Plaza de las Armas, Plaza Catedral , Graphic artists’ workshop and gallery in Callejon Chorro; Plaza San Francisco (Plaza de las Palomas)

Walk the Malecon to Hotel Nacional , HQ of the Cuban revolution; browse the Nacional lobby with photos to the “roaring 50’s” in Havana

Transfer to Hotel for swim, free time

Family salsa dance lesson at studio

Musical evening

DAY 2 

Baseball games 

Visit Callejon de Hamel and take part in the Sunday celebration of the Santeria faith

Visit studio of famous photographer and learn of his fabulous work teaching kids and families about how to save Havana beaches and protect the environment, through community projects and photography

Classic American car tour of Greater Havana

Salsa band and dance under the stars

Baseball games

Lunch with teams and families

Free time at the beach

Cultural activities

Evening activities

Visit ceramics studio 

Community service projects – beautify community buildings

Visit disabled and orphanage, old folks’ home, interact with residence

Community service – complete projects

Interact with opposing baseball players and families

Afternoon at the beach

Visit Vivero Alamar community project in East Havana:  organic communal living and entrepreneurship, a unique blend of Cuban socialism and capitalism

Lunch at Alamar

Walk through the Old Havana community of Belen (Bethlehem) where community services benefit hundreds of elderly and youth

Visit Cemetery of Colon in Havana

Visit “Fusterlandia,” home and neighborhood of “the Picasso of Cuba,” Jose Fuster

Dinner 

Free time & swim at hotel

Musical evening on the streets of Old Havana

Deliver gifts to the MLK Center in Pogolote, Marianao neighborhood of Havana and walk neighborhood streets; visit park for photo ops with local kids and give baseball cards

Transfer to Cojimar where Hemingway kept his boat “Pilar,” for tour of Finca Jesus, self-sustaining organic farm providing produce to Ajiaco, one of Cuba’s first and best private restaurants

Lunch at Ajiaco

Tour Museum of the Revolution

Visit Havana Club rum factory

Visit Partagas Cigar factory

Visit Cohiba official government storeFarewell Cuba! Banquet

Evening of jazz at jazz club; optional Tropicana Nightclub show

Today's Hours: 9 A.M. - 5 P.M.

• Our Stories

Museum Members experience Cuba’s take on the National Pastime

After visiting 29 major league ballparks in the United States – including four or five which have since been knocked down – Museum Members Gene and Nancy Pugliese had thought they’d seen it all. That is, until they embarked to Cuba on the Sports Travel & Tours’ Cuba Baseball Experience .

“We are both supporters and members of the Hall of Fame,” said Gene, a retired New York City fireman. “We heard about the Experience from Memories & Dreams, since (Sports Travel & Tours) is the only travel agency affiliated with the Hall of Fame. When we travel to ballparks, we often visit art museums too, which was another reason to visit Cuba – we were able to see historical landmarks, art museums and more.”

Embarking with a group of 11 other travelers for an eight-day long trip, the Cuba Baseball Experience gave visitors a whole new perspective on the National Pastime. A sport that is deeply embedded in the fabric of the Caribbean island, baseball was represented in the Experience from the grassroots level to the professional.

Ismael Sene, far right, was a 79 year old former intelligence agent turned baseball historian. He invited the Experience tour members to his apartment, spending over an hour telling them stories and sharing photographs and autographed baseballs. (Jay Smith / Sports Travel and Tours)

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Rigoberto Rosique Gia, a Cuban Hall of Famer, pictured talking to the Experience tour group at El Palmar De Junco ,the oldest baseball stadium in Matanzas, Cuba. (Jay Smith / Sports Travel and Tours)

“We saw some sandlot youth baseball, got to see a team from the Dominican play, visited one of the oldest ballparks in Cuba – Estadio Victoria de Girón, home of the Matanzas Cocodrilos,” Gene said.

The Experience even allowed the tour group access to famous players and baseball historians.

“We sat down with the ‘Derek Jeter of Cuba,’ (Carlos Tabares) he had lunch with us,” said Nancy Pugliese. “We also met Ismael Sene, a Cuban intelligence officer turned baseball historian and TV commentator. He showed us his collection of baseball memorabilia and welcomed us into his home. Everyone was very eager to share their experience with us.”

But the Experience went beyond baseball, allowing the tour group to visit locations like Ernest Hemingway’s house and a tobacco factory where workers rolled cigars.

“I really enjoyed seeing all of Cuba – the architecture was fabulous, the old cars, the people were charming,” said Nancy Pugliese. “There wasn’t one thing I could say was my favorite – it was the whole experience.”

Due to certain government restrictions, the itinerary changed frequently during the trip. But owner and operator of Sports Travel & Tours Jay Smith says that the change in plans made the Experience all the more authentic, and contributed to the overall trip.

Chuck Carter (far left) sits next to Hall of Fame members Gene and Nancy Pugliese while heading off to dinner in Havana in a vintage American car. (Jay Smith / Sports Travel and Tours)

Pictured above is a performance of Habana Compás, an Afro-Cuban dance group that incorporates different styles of dance and music in an energetic performance. (Jay Smith / Sports Travel and Tours)

“The changing itinerary was another piece of the Cuban experience that showed the way Cuba operates,” Smith said. “Everything you do there has to go through one Cuban government travel agency. The day to day itinerary changed daily, because they’re just not set for the tourism world as it is. We threw them a curveball by adding the sports flair to it. So it was an ongoing daily itinerary that got changed numerous times. The end result was incredible. We thoroughly exceeded people’s expectations.”

But despite all of the changes in scheduling, the first-time Experience went smoothly, and will be offered again in November of 2017.

A player for the Ciego de Ávila team bats during the game against the Industriales at Estadio Latinoamericano in Havana, Cuba. (Jean Fruth / National Baseball Hall of Fame)

“It was a wonderful experience,” Nancy said. “Sports Travel and Tours did everything for you – I never carried a bag. I would recommend it highly.”

For more information on Sports Travel & Tours baseball experiences, please visit www.sportstravelandtours.com .

Alex Coffey is the communications specialist at the National Baseball Hall of Fame

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Step up to the plate: experience youth baseball in cuba with cuba vip travel.

In an exciting and historic development for the world of youth sports, the island nation of Cuba has extended an open invitation to American youth baseball teams. Known for its passionate love of baseball and its history of producing world-class talent, Cuba presents a unique opportunity for young American athletes to broaden their horizons. Making this possible is Cuba VIP Travel, a trusted name in providing authentic and unforgettable Cuban experiences.

An Invitation Like No Other

The shared love for baseball between the United States and Cuba spans more than a century, connecting the two cultures in a deep and meaningful way. Now, American youth teams have the opportunity to experience this shared heritage firsthand. They are being invited to play on the same fields that have been graced by countless Cuban baseball legends and to soak in the vibrant passion for the sport that pulses through the heart of the nation.

Cuba VIP Travel: Your Gateway to Cuba

Cuba VIP Travel, a premier travel agency specializing in Cuban travel experiences, is ready to help American youth baseball teams make this exciting journey. With extensive knowledge of local culture, contacts within the Cuban Baseball Federation, and a commitment to providing seamless travel experiences, Cuba VIP Travel is ideally positioned to help teams navigate this adventure.

Experience the Challenge and Excitement

By accepting this invitation, American youth baseball teams will not only face new, skilled opponents but also experience a unique style of baseball. Playing against Cuban youth teams, renowned for their discipline and fundamental skills, will offer American players an invaluable opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow as athletes.

Beyond Baseball: A Cultural Exchange

However, this trip is not just about the games. It's also a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and understanding. The young athletes will have the chance to connect with local players and community members, creating bonds that transcend the baseball diamond.

Moreover, Cuba VIP Travel's local knowledge ensures that players and their accompanying family members can explore and appreciate the vibrant Cuban culture fully. From the lively music and dance scenes to historical landmarks and stunning beaches, there's so much to discover and enjoy during your time in Cuba.

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The invitation to American youth baseball teams symbolizes a significant step forward in fostering international sports relationships. It's a testament to the power of sports, particularly baseball, in bridging cultural gaps and forging unity.

To all American youth baseball teams - are you ready for an extraordinary baseball adventure? Pack your gloves, bats, and hats, and let Cuba VIP Travel take care of the rest. Experience baseball as a way of life in Cuba, and make lifelong memories on and off the field. The opportunity for a unique and unforgettable Cuban baseball journey awaits you!

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Cubans News · Apr 22 All Teams Schedule: Week of Apr 22 – Apr 28

Apr 22 Boys JV Golf at Southwestern High School, Barneveld High School, Darlington High School, Fennimore High School, Iowa-Grant High School, Mineral Point High School, Pecatonica Pecatonica/Argyle, Barneveld, Darlington, Fennimore, Iowa-Grant, Mineral Point – Pecatonica/Argyle, Barneveld, Darlington, Fennimore, Iowa-Grant, Mineral Point 4:00 pm | Yellowstone Golf Course Apr 22 Boys Varsity Golf at Southwestern High

Cubans News · Apr 15 All Teams Schedule: Week of Apr 15 – Apr 21

Apr 15 Boys JV Golf at Southwestern High School, Barneveld High School, Darlington High School, Fennimore High School, Iowa-Grant High School, Mineral Point High School, Pecatonica Barneveld, Darlington, Fennimore, Iowa-Grant, Mineral Point, Pecatonica/Argyle – Barneveld, Darlington, Fennimore, Iowa-Grant, Mineral Point, Pecatonica/Argyle 4:00 pm | Deer Valley Golf Course Apr 15 Boys Varsity Golf at Southwestern

Cubans News · Apr 8 All Teams Schedule: Week of Apr 08 – Apr 14

Apr 08 Varsity Softball at Iowa-Grant High School Iowa-Grant 4:30 pm | Cobb City Park Apr 08 Varsity Baseball at Mineral Point Mineral Point 4:30 pm | Mineral Point Baseball Field Apr 08 JV Baseball at Belmont High School Belmont 4:30 pm | Belmont High School Apr 08 Varsity Softball at Iowa-Grant High School Iowa-Grant

Cubans News · Apr 1 All Teams Schedule: Week of Apr 01 – Apr 07

Apr 01 Varsity Softball vs. Mineral Point Mineral Point 4:30 pm | Cuba City City Park Apr 01 Varsity Baseball vs. Pecatonica Pecatonica 5:00 pm | Cuba City High School/Middle School Apr 01 JV Softball vs. Mineral Point High School Mineral Point 6:15 pm | Cuba City City Park Apr 02 Varsity Baseball vs. Fennimore

Cubans News · Mar 25 All Teams Schedule: Week of Mar 25 – Mar 31

Mar 26 Varsity Softball vs. East Dubuque High School East Dubuque 4:30 pm | Cuba City High School/Middle School Mar 26 JV Softball vs. East Dubuque High School East Dubuque 6:00 pm | Cuba City High School/Middle School Mar 28 Varsity Softball at Fennimore High School Fennimore 4:30 pm | Fennimore City Diamonds Mar 28

Cubans News · Mar 18 All Teams Schedule: Week of Mar 18 – Mar 24

Mar 19 Boys Varsity Track at River Ridge High School, Riverdale High School, Southwestern High School, Westby Area High School, Wisconsin Heights High School, Dodgeville High School, Iowa-Grant High School, Oregon High School, Parkview High School, Belmont High School, Albany High School, Black Hawk High School, Boscobel High School, Cassville High School, Belmont High School,

Cubans News · Mar 11 All Teams Schedule: Week of Mar 11 – Mar 17

Mar 16 Varsity Softball at Potosi High School Potosi 10:00 am | Potosi High School

Cubans News · Mar 4 All Teams Schedule: Week of Mar 04 – Mar 10

No Events This Week Events are added by athletic staff.

Cubans News · Feb 26 All Teams Schedule: Week of Feb 26 – Mar 03

Feb 27 Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Parkview High School Parkview 7:00 pm | Cuba City High School/Middle School

Cubans News · Feb 19 All Teams Schedule: Week of Feb 19 – Feb 25

Feb 22 Boys JV Basketball vs. Boscobel High School Boscobel 6:00 pm | Cuba City High School/Middle School Feb 22 Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Boscobel High School Boscobel 7:30 pm | Cuba City High School/Middle School

Travel Baseball Uncovered: A Guide For Parents And Players

Let’s talk about baseball—travel baseball, to be exact.

For many, moving from the Little League to travel baseball feels like catching a curveball. After all, it’s more than just a pace change; it’s about trading Saturday afternoon matches on a grassy field for serious club competitions that come with a higher price tag.

You might be thinking, “Is this the right play for my little slugger?” or “How do I even go about choosing a team?”

Well, here’s our chance at bat. We’ll walk you through everything youth travel baseball has to offer, including answering these questions and more.

Table of Contents

What is Travel Baseball [Explained]

Travel baseball is just what it sounds like. It’s when youth teams have to travel in order to have their games and tournaments. This is usually the next step after traditional recreational or Little League. 

Since the level of competition is much higher, it can help them develop their skills.

But preparation comes at a cost—literally. And all that time on the road can take up your schedule very quickly. But despite all that extra work, they’ll get an exciting adventure out of it. Now, they’ll face off against teams from different cities, states, and sometimes even countries.

The love for Travel Baseball is Growing Fast.

In recent years, travel baseball gained an exponential amount of popularity and saw thousands of teams pop up across the country. 

Before the 90s, it was a relatively niche experience only limited to players nestled in regions like Texas and California.

Nowadays, participation is considered necessary for young players wanting to sharpen their skills and go up against some really tough competition.

Instead of focusing on the local leagues like recreational youth baseball does, travel ball operates under various organizations, hosting hundreds of tournaments each year. 

Some big names include USSSA (United States Specialty Sports Association), AAU (Amateur Athletic Union), Triple Crown Sports , and Perfect Game . 

The ambitious goal for any team is to face off against as many different teams as possible to gain experience and test their skills.

Everyone can create a travel baseball team. It doesn’t matter if you’re a parent, high school teacher, or someone who coaches college kids.

The highlight of the season is the travel baseball tournament. Bringing together talented teams from different parts of the world to compete. 

This lets players show their skills to a bigger audience, including scouts and college coaches. These tournaments are organized by many institutions and happen locally, regionally, or even nationally.

There’s nothing cooler than the USSSA World Series, though. Every year, it’s hosted by the United States Specialty Sports Association. 

You’ll find talent from all over America coming here to fight for that top spot. But another epic tournament is the Triple Crown Summer Nationals, where they hold it at Myrtle Beach 

in South Carolina. It attracts teams from everywhere and is known for great competition and vacation vibes.

A unique little competition is held in Cooperstown, New York, known as the Cooperstown Dreams Park Tournament. 

Cooperstown, known as baseball’s birthplace, offers a unique week-long stay in baseball-style barracks. You can visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

These intense and challenging tournaments bring out some of the most talented players young kids have to offer. It’s also a great way to boost your young player’s confidence in playing on those big stages!

Different Levels Of Travel Teams And Their Requirements

It’s not just one level fit all for travel baseball teams. They’re organized into various levels based on skill, experience, and commitment from players. 

Imagine putting someone who only knows how to throw with moderate force into a contest against someone who does it with full force.

The team you choose for yourself should align with your skill level, how much free time you have, and your developmental needs as a player. Here’s an overview of different levels:

1. Local Travel Teams : For beginners starting their journey through travel baseball. The games they play are mostly local or within a close driving distance. Practices only happen a few times a week, and games during the weekend.

2. Regional Travel Teams : For players with more experience and higher skill levels. They go on trips for games and tournaments that will require overnight stays at places. Commitment level is higher, with practices being more frequent along with a longer season.

3. Showcase Travel Teams : The big leagues of young kid baseball players. These teams are made up of highly skilled people who are very serious about baseball. They have college scouts and recruiters present their games. This includes going to different states for showcase tournaments. 

You’ll need to be extremely committed to even think about trying out for this team, and their practices are rigorous and frequent, lasting all year round!

Benefits of Playing in a Travel Baseball Team 

A lot of benefits come from playing travel baseball. 

The biggest one? It can help players get to their goals. It’s not just about playing a game, especially when you want to make it big. It’s actually an experience that provides lifelong skills that can be applied everywhere else.

Competition in recreational leagues is nothing compared to this. It’s way higher. This allows players to grow new and old skills at a faster rate. 

There’s also an intense training schedule that demands discipline, resilience, and focus. These qualities go beyond just sports.

Participating in high-profile tournaments also gets the attention of other coaches and scouts. Which makes it easier for them to open doors for scholarships and professional contracts.

Traveling away from home just for games might seem like a drag, but it builds responsibility and maturity. It is a demanding journey for sure, but very rewarding.

Did MLB Players Play Travel Baseball?

Definitely! A lot of Major League Baseball (MLB) players used travel baseball as their starting point, too. It gives them all the exposure they need, honing skills at such a young age along with fierce competition.

Take Bryce Harper , for example. He’s one of the biggest names in MLB today. His journey started back when he was a child playing for the Southern Nevada Bulldogs 14U travel team. The opportunity came up where he could go against older players who were more experienced than him. This experience helped shape his professional career.

Albert Pujols also played travel baseball when he was younger on his team called Fort Osage Indians Travel Team before sailing into the Hall of Fame.

Clayton Kershaw ? Yeah, him too! Another name you hear often in MLB didn’t start there either — he played for the Dallas Tigers Travel Team where he developed early on gaining crucial skills and discipline that are instrumental in his success today.

How to Find a Travel Baseball Team in Your Region? 

If you’re a young baseball player who wants to take their skills to the next level, then joining a travel team is a great opportunity. If you are a parent and want to make your child the next MLB star, then travel baseball teams are a great place to start with. 

These teams play across the country and allow players to show their talents against top-tier competition. But how do you find one of these teams? 

Here’s a guide on how you can join a travel baseball team in the USA.

Check your local youth baseball organization.

Your first step should be checking with your local youth baseball organization. Chances are they have travel teams that play in leagues and tournaments outside of the regular season. If they don’t, then it’s likely they know someone who does.

Drop by showcases and camps.

In-person events like showcases and camps are great places to meet coaches and scouts from travel baseball teams. They’re designed specifically so players can showcase their skills and get noticed by recruiters.

The internet holds many answers, including finding a travel baseball team. Websites like USSSA Baseball, Perfect Game USA, and Travel Ball Select list lots of travel baseball teams based on state, age group, and skill level — all at a click away.

Talk to other parents and players.

If you want first-hand experience, then talk to other parents or players who have been through this process before. They can give useful insight into which teams are reputable, well-run, and competitive.

For example, if you live in Texas, then one option could be the Texas Bombers Baseball Club — an organization that has multiple teams at different age levels and is known for developing young talent. You can learn more about them by visiting their website or attending one of their tryouts.

How to Find the Perfect Travel Baseball Team? 

Identify the skill level and commitment of the player.

First thing first, you need to figure out how committed your child is to the sport and their skill level.  If he is naturally gifted athlete then you should help him to follow his dream. 

Research Local and Regional Teams

Begin by looking at teams that are close by. These teams usually have varying levels of skill and serve as great entry points for most players. 

You can check their websites and social media pages to learn more about them such as philosophy, coaches, players, and game schedule.

Attend Local Games and Practices 

Sitting in on local games and practices allows you to get a firsthand look at how they run things. You’ll be able to see their coaching style, how they interact with the players, and the overall team dynamic. With this insight, it’ll be easier to make a decision.

Speak with Coaches and Parents

While observing is good, it isn’t enough. Take some time out of your day or week to speak with coaches. 

This allows you to gain an understanding of their training methods, the expectations they have for your child, and the goals they want them to reach. It’s also good practice to talk to other parents so you can get a general idea of what people think about the team.

Consider Logistics

Logistical factors are important, too, so don’t forget about them. Make sure that the team’s practice location is suitable for you and your family’s schedule since it may be far away from where you currently live or work. 

The game schedule should be looked at as well because there could be conflicts in dates that would keep you from attending games.

Tryouts & Evaluations

Most teams hold tryouts or evaluations for people who are interested in joining. If this is offered, take advantage of it because it gives your child the chance to showcase their skills and for you to see if the team would be a good fit. 

A player’s evaluation is also helpful because it gives you insight into how strong the team itself is.

Travel Baseball Season Preparations 

Preparations before the pre-season.

Before the baseball season starts, you’ll want to make sure that your child is mentally and physically ready for the long days ahead. 

So, let’s start with an off-season workout routine to help build strength and agility. But don’t forget about eating well and getting enough sleep. Plus, practicing regularly can take their fielding, pitching, and hitting skills way up.

During the season

Once the season starts, it’s important to stay fit and perform at your best. You’ll want to communicate with their coach to keep track of your child’s progress as well as any areas they need improvement in. 

Another thing you should do is show up to their games and practices. It helps you stay in tune with how the team is performing and also supports your child. And finally, always keep their lines of communication open, whether it’s about pressure or their anxiety.

Post-Season

After a long season, it’s important to take a break. Reflect on the games you had together. Acknowledge all the good things they did but also focus on areas they can improve in. 

Give them some downtime so they can rest and recover. Even though they’re chilling around, don’t let them become bums — physical activity is still important for them during this time.

Travel Baseball vs. Little League

Both types of baseball have their own unique experience and benefits that come along with it. The choice of which one to put your kid into mostly depends on what they want out of it.

For example, travel baseball is more competitive. It attracts players who are committed to sports no matter what and are willing to travel around just for a game against top talent in various regions. Not only does this provide intense competition but also high-level coaching.

It does require a lot of time, as seasons are much longer than in little leagues with more games and practices.

If you want your child exposed more, then this would be a good option, as you can see from Bryce Harper, Albert Pujols, and Clayton Kershaw.

Now, little league baseball is less demanding. It’s generally more focused on the community and not so much on traveling and time. 

It’s actually a great option for kids who still love the sport but aren’t ready to commit to such a demanding schedule. They focus on learning fundamental skills, enjoying the game, and fostering a sense of community.

You can learn more here: Travel Baseball Vs Little League

The Cost of Playing Travel Baseball

If your kid has a future in baseball, you might want to consider enrolling them in travel baseball. The only problem is that this option is much more expensive than local leagues. 

Local leagues tend to have low costs because they don’t do as much traveling as travel teams have to do. On top of paying for the actual games themselves, there’s also the top-of-the-line coaching and amazing facilities that the team needs to cover. 

You’ll be hit with fees like equipment, uniform, tournament, travel (like gas and airfare), and a team fee.

The team fee alone can include things like league fees, practice facility rentals, and salaries for the coaches. 

And let’s not forget about any extra training or lessons they need in order to take their skills up a notch.

It’s always good to ask the people organizing the league what you’re paying for specifically because then maybe it won’t seem so bad (it probably will still seem bad, though). 

But it really does come down to where you live. 

Depending on that, it could cost you anywhere from $1,500-$3,000 per season. And if you’re on one of those elite teams competing at national tournaments, then I’m sorry, but it’ll probably cost way more.

Find Out How To Choose A Coach

A good coach doesn’t just teach how to play sports but also builds discipline and confidence, along with fostering a love for the game. Here are some tips on picking a coach:

Experience And Certification : A coach should always have some kind of experience coaching youth sports, but having proof that they passed some coaching program can give you peace of mind, knowing they know what they’re doing.

Coaching Style : Every coach is different and will treat their athletes differently, too. Some will be very intense in trying to push their players, while others are more relaxed yet inspiring. Pick what works best with your child’s personality.

Communication Skills : A good coach knows how to explain things in a way that’s easy for their athletes to understand. They should also be great at talking to you and other parents.

Focus On Development : It’s better for your kid to improve their skills rather than just win all the time. Look for coaches that will work with them on that.

Reputation : Finally, look into what other people say about the coach. Not only other players but parents, too. It doesn’t hurt to ask around or even watch them during practice if you can. 

Things to Know About Uniforms and Equipment in Travel Baseball

Uniforms and equipment are a necessary investment in travel baseball. It can be beyond what you expect from Little League. Here’s a quick rundown of what your child might need:

Uniforms : Most travel baseball teams have their own custom jerseys that come with pants, caps, belts, and socks. Some teams may even have home and away uniforms, so check with the manager first.

Gloves/Mitts : Get your child a good quality glove or mitt that suits the position they play. For example, catchers and first basemen have their own special mitts, while outfielders use bigger gloves compared to infielders. Check out the Best Youth Infield Gloves 

Bats : Bat rules can get very specific, depending on the league. Before you buy one, make sure you understand what kind is allowed. Also, consider their height, weight, and hitting strength when selecting the right bat size . 

You can check out my list of Best Youth Baseball Bats

Helmets : No matter how old or young your child is, they need a batting helmet. Some leagues even require faceguards as well. Check out the Best Youth Baseball Helmet

Cleats : Running on grass and dirt requires traction, which is why cleats are used in baseball. However, be aware that some leagues don’t allow metal spikes, so again, you should always check if there are any shoe restrictions.

Protective gear : Depending on the position they’re playing at, your kid may need extra protection such as shin guards for their legs or a chest protector for their torso

What is a good age range for travel baseball?

Travel baseball typically starts around 7 or 8 years old and goes through high school. However, the age that you can join may differ depending on the league or team.

How much does it cost to play travel baseball? 

The price of playing travel baseball could be greatly different depending on things like where you live, what team you’re on, and at what level you play. You’ll have to pay for league fees, uniforms, equipment, and even the costs of traveling and staying in other cities for away games.

How often would we need to practice? 

Usually, travel teams practice more often than recreational ones. It’s common for them to meet several times each week. But it will depend on the time and dedication your child’s coach expects.

How far do they have to go? 

Again, that’ll depend on what league your child signs up for. Some teams only need to go a couple of miles, while others will have to cross city lines.

Can my child also play another sport? 

It all depends on how much time both sports require. Understandably, travel baseball takes up quite a bit of time and energy, so consider if they have enough for both.

Overall Worth of Travel Baseball 

Traveling with a baseball team is no joke. For players and families alike, it’s considered a big commitment that takes up lots of time, money, and energy. 

And while it opens up new opportunities, the best reward for joining one is amazing! The skills learned, and knowledge gained from playing at higher levels is priceless. 

Plus, it builds character, helping to teach important lessons like teamwork, dedication, success handling, and, most importantly, failure handling. And let’s not forget about the friendships built along the way from spending hours with teammates in different places across the country. 

Even though some costs and sacrifices come with this commitment, most families say joining a traveling baseball team was totally worth every bit of it. 

Just remember, the end goal is to love the sport and grow as a person.

Hello everyone. My name is  Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player.  I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego. 

I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit. 

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High School Sports | Wisconsin baseball: St. Croix Falls loses to…

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High school sports | wisconsin baseball: st. croix falls loses to cuba city in division 3 title game.

GRAND CHUTE, Wis. — The St. Croix Falls baseball team’s hopes of championship history evaporated in a two-inning span.

The Saints, making their first state tournament appearance in 74 years, saw Cuba City erase a one-run deficit with three runs in the fifth inning and two more in sixth for an 8-4 victory in the Division 3 championship game on Thursday.

“I really believe that we put St. Croix Falls baseball on the map in a good way,” Saints coach Matt Vold said. “Just really proud of them. They brought the community of St. Croix Falls together. I’m just really happy and proud of how they competed.”

St. Croix Falls (26-3), which had not allowed a run in five postseason games up until Thursday’s title game, took its first lead, 4-3, with two runs in the third. Brayden Olson reached on an error, and Brady Belisle tied it with a triple to left-center. Tyler Olson followed with a sacrifice fly to center.

But the fourth-ranked Saints were unable to add on against Cuba City right-hander Blake Bussan, who allowed seven hits and three walks before reaching his pitch limit after 6 2/3 innings.

“When we took the lead, usually with this crew, they just keep on going,” Vold said. “They talk about ‘all pedal, no brakes,’ and that’s usually what they do. So, I was a little surprised by that. I think some of that was being on the big stage. There was a little bit of tightness.”

Cuba City (23-4), which ousted top-ranked Amherst 2-1 in the semifinals, scored three in the fifth off St. Croix Falls starter Dylan Smith for a 6-4 lead. The Cubans added two more in the sixth on a bases-loaded passed ball and bases-loaded walk.

Smith allowed seven runs, six earned, on nine hits in 5 1/3 innings, striking out three and walking one.

“Our approach was stay back, make contact with it and make them have to make plays,” Cuba City coach Steve Graber said. “They’re a good defensive team, but put it in play and see what happens, and we did that.”

Cuba City centerfielder Will Busch stymied the Saints with several sensational plays, including a sliding grab of Belisle’s liner in the fifth with the leadoff runner aboard.

“That centerfielder made multiple insane catches,” said junior Brayden Olson, who tossed a five-hit shutout in Wednesday’s 8-0 semifinal win over defending champion Kenosha St. Joseph. “Multiple diving catches that would have been down if any other centerfielder had been out there.”

After five straight shutout victories, the Saints fell behind 2-0 in the first.

The Saints got one back in the bottom half on a one-out double down the left-field line by Adrian Scott and a two-out single by Belisle.

The Cubans made it 3-1 in the second on a walk and two singles. St Croix Central again answered on an RBI single by Oliver Schmidt.

The title was the first for unranked Cuba City, whose only other appearance was a runner-up finish in 1955.

St. Croix Falls, which lost in the sectional final last season, had only three seniors — Schmidt, Sam Glenna and Cole Rutledge — on the roster for its for trip to state since 1948.

“I’ll tell you what, that team is loaded,” Graber said of the Saints. “That team will be back here.”

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Cuban Little League to Make History With First-Ever World Series Appearance

The Cuba Region champion Little League team from Bayamo, Cuba, rides in the Little League Grand Slam Parade in downtown Williamsport, Pennsylvania, Monday, August 14, 2023. The Little League World Series baseball tournament, featuring 20 teams from around the world, starts later in week in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Cuban Little League Baseball is making history with its first appearance in the Little League Baseball World Series this year in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

The team from Bayamo, Cuba qualified for direct entry after winning the Cuban tournament. The effort was made possible by the expansion of the Little League Baseball World Series announced in 2019 .

Previously, Cuba participated in the series in 2019 but lost in the semifinals. The country could not participate in 2020 or 2021 due to the pandemic. After rejoining the Caribbean Region tournament in 2022, the Cuban team again lost in the semifinals.

This year, however, the excitement about the team making it to Williamsport is palpable across the region.

“Since establishing our partnership with the Cuban Baseball Federation four years ago, we have continued to find ways to provide memorable experiences to children in 180 municipal communities all across the country, and we applaud Bayamo Little League on becoming Cuba’s first national champion with direct entry to the World Series,” said Stephen D. Keener, president and CEO of Little League Baseball, in a statement back in March. “We look forward to working with U.S. government authorities, our league volunteers, and Cuban officials to help bring the team to Williamsport and to be able to experience the memories, excitement, and joy that the World Series provides to children from all over the world each summer.”

Little League Dreams , a new documentary by Havana-based media organization Belly of the Beast showcases the young players and their individual journeys, providing much-needed context for the excitement and meaning that is little understood in the United States. The commitment and perseverance of the Cuban players are representative of the daily struggles of the Cuban people themselves—hence, the significance for Cubans all over the world is about more than representation.

Co-directed by Daniel Montero and Frank Rojazz —winners of the One World Media Award and the Telly Award for their work in the acclaimed documentary series, The War on Cuba —  Little League Dreams delves into the reality in Cuba as the children struggle through many difficulties, including extensive travel and family separation.

“ Little League Dreams profiles the inspiring stories of Cuba’s top little leaguers as they prepare for the biggest adventure of their young lives,” reads a statement from Belly of the Beast. “These kids must overcome family hardships in the midst of a crushing economic crisis while they shoulder the weight of their families’ —and their country’s— expectations.”

“After a number of years where things have been really hard here and everything coming from the U.S. towards the Cuban people —you know, the sanctions, Trump reversing Obama’s steps toward reconciliation with Cuba and Biden keeping them all in place— it just feels good to see an alternative to that,” said Montero. “Sports and the arts can offer an alternative, a better example of relations between two countries. It’s essential things like this happen and that the Little League team for Cuba can represent us there at Williamsport.”

“I think it’s just great that we have kids at the top levels of baseball, just like it’s great to have Cuban players in the majors,” Montero added. “Hopefully it will be in a different way but it feels good that Cuban players can represent us in the United States. That means a lot to me in particular and to a lot of Cubans as well.”

The Little League Baseball World Series will be held from August 16 to August 27 and will air on ESPN .

Arturo Domínquez  is a first-generation Cuban American, anti-racist, journalist, and the publisher of  The Antagonist magazine . Twitter: @ExtremeArturo

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Baseball Game (Beisbol)

Prices (USD): Adult 45 / Child 28

Frequency: According to games' schedule

Duration: Approximately 7 hours

Inclusions: Pick-up/drop-off at your hotel, tour guide, transportation in air-conditioned bus, game ticket, lunch with one drink.

Program: This is an invitation to sport fans to watch a baseball game. “Beisbol” (also called "Pelota") is by far the most popular sport in Cuba! Experience first-hand the passion of the Cuban people for their national sport and local team the “Tigres”.

• Departure from you hotel around 8 am.
• Travel along the causeway Pedraplen to reach the mainland and enjoy spectacular views.
• Enjoy a city tour of Ciego de Avila, the provincial capital, including "Parque Jose Marti", the "Esquina de Eddy Martin", and a stroll along the Boulevard to admire the architectural beauty.
• Visit "El Parque de la Ciudad" where you'll get the chance to practice your swing in a batting cage.
• Have lunch in a local restaurant, frist drink included.
• Transfer to the “José Ramon Cepero” Stadium to enjoy the game.
• Back to your hotel in the Cayos.

Prices and conditions are subject to change.

Suggestions on what to wear and bring: Comfortable wear and shoes, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, bottled water, camera, cash in small denominations for souvenirs, drinks and tips.

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Cuban team ready to take field in miami for world baseball classic despite political controversy.

Cody Weddle , Reporter

Ryan Mackey , Digital Journalist

MIAMI – The Cuban flags are out and Little Havana, the heart of the Cuban exile community, is ready to receive its Cuban National baseball team.

It marks the first time since 2006 that the team has reached the semifinals of the World Baseball Classic.

But, as controversy continues to grow ahead of Sunday’s game, Orlando Gutierrez, of the Cuban Resistance Assembly, told Local 10 News Thursday that this isn’t just any game and to expect protests surrounding their visit.

“I expect to see really good Cuban baseball players, play a sport that Cubans adore,” Gutierrez said. “To put forth the voice of those people in Cuba who are in prison, who are persecuted.”

Gutierrez argues that for decades the Cuban government has used sports to spread propaganda and political influence.

“We have nothing against the players,” he said. “They’re athletes competing in a major athletic sport competition and we don’t reject them. We reject the regime which controls them, and the regime which is represented in this world event.”

As for the players, Gutierrez argues that being in Miami is probably highly stressful as they are under immense scrutiny from the Cuban government as Cuban athletes in the past have used similar events to defect.

“I have no doubt that if they were to defect, their families back at home would suffer significant consequences,” said retired University of Miami professor and Cuba expert Andy Gomez.

Many Cuban exiles like like Elpidiao Morejon argue the Cuban government has used sports for decades as an international propaganda tool.

“As great as they are as players, they’re representing the dictatorship. They are not representing the people of Cuba,” he said.

Police said they are preparing for protests at loanDepot Park ahead of the game, but their main priority is to make sure everyone is safe.

“We just ask everyone to please respect everyone’s opinion,” said Miami Police Capt. Freddie Cruz. “We live in a free country. We won’t tolerate violence.”

After decades of being rejected by the Cuban government, this will also mark the first time that Major League Baseball players will join the Cuban National Team. Four of them accepted the invitation while many others declined.

Cuba will now face off against the winner of the Venezuela-USA game. The World Baseball Classic Semifinals will begin Sunday at 7:00 p.m.

Copyright 2023 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.

About the Authors

Cody weddle.

Cody Weddle joined Local 10 News as a full-time reporter in South Florida in August of 2022. Before that, Cody worked regularly with Local 10 since January of 2017 as a foreign correspondent in Venezuela and Colombia.

Ryan Mackey

Ryan Mackey is a Digital Journalist at WPLG. He was born in Long Island, New York, and has lived in Sunrise, Florida since 1994.

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