Robinson Canó, the veteran second baseman, will once again be representing the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean Series. The 42-year-old has confirmed his participation with the Leones del Escogido, the newly crowned champions of the Dominican Professional Winter League.
The Caribbean Series is set to begin Friday, 31 January 2025 in Mexicali, Mexico, with the Leones facing Venezuela at 5:30pm local time. Teams from Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Venezuela will battle for the pennant. Japan is the guest participant this year, but does not qualify for the pennant.
“I know I’m going to the Caribbean Series because they’ve already invited me,” Canó said during the inauguration of a new sports complex in his hometown. “I haven’t seen the roster of the other players who are going, but I can assure you that the Dominican Republic always brings a good team and as always, we’ll fight to bring the championship home.”
This marks Canó’s fourth Caribbean Series appearance, having previously played for the Aguilas Cibaeñas, Gigantes del Cibao, and Tigres del Licey. He has won the championship twice, with the Aguilas and the Licey.
“I’m happy that at this age, I can still play at this level,” Canó expressed. “I’m happy to be invited by the Leones del Escogido to continue representing my country. I feel very proud and happy, and whenever I can represent my country, I will do it with all my heart.”
Canó also praised Leones manager Albert Pujols for leading the team to their 17th championship. “I have a great relationship with Pujols. For me, he’s like an older brother,” Canó said. “I’m very happy for him and what has been happening with him. He received a lot of criticism, but he really did a good job and the results are there.”
Canó has traditionally represented the country abroad. He is best remembered for his stellar role in the platano power-marked World Baseball Classic, the Dominican Republic won in 2013.
Read more in Spanish:
El Caribe
29 January 2025