Eriel Sánchez: The Key Lies in Taking the Field and Always Playing as a Team

With a favorable record of four wins and one loss against Villa Clara in the opening series of the 64th National Baseball Series, the Sancti Spíritus team confirmed its playoff aspirations and drew positive assessments from its manager, Eriel Sánchez.

The key to what has been done and what is to come lies in taking the field and always playing as a team, and in everything that individual players can contribute, the former catcher and designated hitter for the Cuban national team told the Cuban News Agency.

He emphasized that from the moment the team was formed, it was clear that playing time would go to whoever demonstrated potential, attitude, and dedication to achieving victories on the field—a philosophy shared by the entire coaching staff.

We expected a closer result against a Villa Clara team that always gives us a tough time and snatches wins from us, but we fought for every challenge, we took advantage of every opportunity, and we scored the necessary runs to win, he argued.

Offensively, the Gallos executed various strategies to score runs, including utilizing their speed as an asset. However, the effective pitching must be highlighted, as the starters managed the game, the middle relievers did their job, and the closers delivered.

Eriel Sánchez specified that, despite the youth of the pitching staff, there is confidence and a targeted effort from the collective coaching staff, which is reflected in these four wins, all with close scores. He highlighted Fernando Betanzos, who already has three wins.

This result is closely tied to our preparation, which has been intense and detailed, polishing up our deficiencies, Betanzos himself stated.

The players take the field eager for victory, they defend the game, and they are constantly cheering you on. That gives you strength, confidence, and energy to fight for your win, asserted the pitcher. Along with Yankiel Mauris, as the most experienced arms in the bullpen, they have the responsibility of preserving the lead and the victory.

Starting Tuesday, the Gallos will host the Avilanian Tigers on their home field—a sub-series that, according to Eriel Sánchez, could also be closely contested. But we will go out to fight for every game the way a team should.