Yurisbel Gracial: "I Love This New Version of Matanzas"

Veteran Slugger Praises Team's Blend of Experience and Youth After Semifinal Win
"I love this new version of the team, with experienced players and young stars who force us veterans to maintain our level," confessed Yurisbel Gracial today, the Cuban ballplayer with experience in Japanese professional baseball, following the Matanzas Cocodriles' victory in the 64th National Series semifinal.

After the duel held at the Victoria de Girón park, where Gracial was a decisive offensive factor, the 40-year-old player commented that he sees the group as highly motivated overall. Regarding his personal role, he tries to give his best so the rest of the squad follows his lead and gains confidence.

"I believe the key lies in going out to have fun and enjoy every game. Baseball is a sport that often leads us to frustration, which is why it's important to prepare mentally to face the challenges of this discipline," stated the former member of Japan's major league SoftBank Hawks.

On Leadership and Guiding the Team
Regarding his role as a leader and how he guides the collective, he pointed out that he usually tells the guys what they need to hear to push through the game together. "Sometimes it's just about believing and trusting in a positive result," he emphasized.

In his remarks to the press, after a period with little media interaction, the powerful hitter also had words of praise for the opponent, Havana's Industriales, and for the fans who gathered this Sunday at the colossus on Avenida Martín Dihigo. "I hadn't seen such a large crowd in years," he stated.

With his performance on the cold Sunday afternoon—two hits in three at-bats, two runs scored, and one RBI—Yurisbel Gracial contributed to the Cocodriles' victory over the Lions and now hopes to maintain his contribution in pursuit of the national crown, which has eluded Matanzas teams since 2020.