Pedro Medina: “Cuban Baseball Health Depends much on Industriales’ Pace”

Always loyal to his Blues, one of the greatest catchers of all times in Cuban baseball, Pedro Medina, is confident that "Industriales can climb positions in the standings and be among the top eight teams, which is the first thing that must be done within the National Series of Baseball."

For the "hero of Edmonton," it is vital "that Industriales remain on top of baseball, because Cuban baseball health depends much on Industriales’ pace." However, his inevitable love for the jersey with which he won several championships, does not prevent him from recognizing that all of the 16 teams participating in the current National Series “have similar strength."

"Each team wins and then loses, because there is no big gap between them. The quality is there, so as the series progresses, the players will get much better and we will have the chance to see very talented athletes.

"Industriales, as always, remain on top and aim at putting on a great show for the large audience gathered at Latinoamericano Stadium, to whom we are always grateful. I, who no longer play baseball, am grateful to fans for always being there because there was a time when the parents of fans coming to the stadium today, supported me."

How much has Cuban baseball changed, for better or worse, from that time to now?

"Comparing times is very difficult, because each person belongs to their time. But baseball is the same and you must preserve it with the players at your disposal. You have to find a way to develop those players. Before, as games were played at night, it was much easier to practice in the mornings.

Now, with this situation that games are played in the afternoon, players have few time to correct their mistakes.

"On the other hand, there are many more opportunities: first, the transportation is much better than it was a while ago. The places to rest are pretty much comfortable than years ago. Baseball kits are much better as well, and some other privileges we did not have."

And what remains constant?

"You can improve your skills as a player if you train every single day. You have to practice baseball on a daily basis. If you don't train like this, you will not get results."

You were talking about the fans. We have finally seen them at the stadium...

"Fans are crowding stadiums again in this National Series. And this certainly gives you strength and encourages you to perform better as you play for them."

What is Pedro Medina doing these days?

“I worked within the Institute for 32 years. Today, I am collaborating with the National Baseball Commission as Technical Commissioner within the National Series. I am always linked to baseball.”

What is your advice for new generations?

"I advise them to put their heart into baseball and try to be better every day."

Translated by Sergio A. Paneque Díaz / CubaSí Translation Staff