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The former Major League player Erisbel Arruebarruena made his debut this Saturday in the Provincial Series of Cienfuegos, with the Abreus team, as confirmed by sports commentator Yasel Porto.
Arruebarruena had his first game at the Lázaro Santos Stadium in the municipality of Abreus. "In this way, his return to the baseball of his homeland is officially confirmed. This also paves the way for his subsequent return to the Elefantes de Cienfuegos in the upcoming National Series," Porto commented.
"The Cricket," as he is known, returned in 2019 to join the Cuba Team after having played for the MLB.
"Today it was officially announced that Erisbel Arruebarruena will play with the Elefantes in the upcoming National Series, in addition to participating in the Provincial Series playing for his municipality Abreus. According to confirmation from the Provincial Baseball Commission of Cienfuegos made this morning, the talented shortstop has decided to play his final seasons here in the Pearl of the South," wrote Fabián Morales, sports reporter.
His time in the Major Leagues with the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2014 to 2018 was not easy. Since signing a contract worth 25 million dollars, he encountered several issues.
In July 2014, he was involved in a brawl during a Triple A game. The following year, he was suspended indefinitely. Thanks to his appeal, the penalty was reduced to one month.
Arruebarruena, who since his return to baseball on the island had been representing the colors of the Cocodrilos de Matanzas, will be joining Cienfuegos, his birthplace, for the 2025 64th National Series.
The Cienfuegos torpedoes was named the best player in Cuba for 2023 by the National Baseball Commission (CNB).
In the 2020 domestic classic, he won the island title with the representative team from Matanzas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Erisbel Arruebarruena's Return to Cuban Baseball
Who is Erisbel Arruebarruena and what is his career in baseball?
Erisbel Arruebarruena is a former Major League Baseball player known by his nickname "El Grillo." He made his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers and had a 25 million dollar contract. His time in the Major Leagues was marked by problems, including a suspension. In Cuba, he was named the best player in 2023 and has played for teams like the Matanzas Crocodiles and now the Cienfuegos Elephants.
Why is Arruebarruena's return to the Provincial Series of Cienfuegos significant?
The return of Arruebarruena to the Provincial Series of Cienfuegos marks his comeback to the baseball of his hometown. After his experience in MLB and participation in high-level teams in Cuba, his decision to play in the Provincial Series highlights his commitment to local baseball and his desire to conclude his sports career in his birthplace, Cienfuegos.
What is the impact of Erisbel Arruebarruena on current Cuban baseball?
Erisbel Arruebarruena is regarded as one of the best recent Cuban baseball players, having been named the best player in Cuba in 2023. His return to the Provincial Series and his planned participation in the National Series with the Cienfuegos Elephants strengthen the quality of baseball on the island and serve as an example of dedication for younger talents.
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