Panama City, Aug 12 (JIT) - Four talented Cuban players were included among the most outstanding players of the U-18 Pan American Baseball Tournament, which took place in Panama.

They were Cristian Arnelio Rego (pitcher, 0.00 ERA in seven innings), Raidel Sánchez (best designated hitter), Yordan Manduley (best defensive player) and left-hander César Morales (best won-lost average, 2-0).

The Cuban team lost 2x3 against Puerto Rico and finished in fourth place in the Tournament.

"This is the prize for so many hours of training. In the last 63rd National Baseball Series I was part of the Santiago de Cuba team as a reserve catcher and that helped me to be among experienced players. Now, Professor Michael González used me as designated hitter and I was able to respond," Sánchez told JIT.

The Cuban team was received Sunday by Victor Cairo Palomo, Cuban ambassador to Panama, who highlighted the performance of the team that qualified for the 2025 World Championship to be held in Panama.

"These have been days in which we have had to alternate our tasks at the embassy with supporting you in the stadiums. We couldn't get a medal, but everyone gave their all and got the ticket to the world championship," Palomo said.

Meanwhile, the team captain, Jonathan Moreno (VCL), thanked the embassy staff for their support in every game and expressed his satisfaction for the World Cup qualification, obtained thanks to everyone's contribution.