Alfonso Urquiola Crespo, the legendary number eight of Cuban baseball, is returning to manage the Vegueros de Pinar del Río in the LXV National Baseball Series.

The news had already circulated on social media, but was officially announced Wednesday during a meeting between the provincial sports directorate and the baseball commission, held in the presence of local authorities, sports legends, and players from the roster.

"More than a return, this is a commitment to continue the work my son has done with the team, which has played an outstanding role," said the man known as El Relámpago de Bahía Honda — The Lightning Bolt of Bahía Honda — to the Cuban News Agency.

"This is not a substitution — a father does not replace a son. Alexander has other responsibilities, such as the Under-15 World Championship, and I am pleased to take on the task of continuing his legacy," he said.

The experienced manager enjoys broad support from the fan base, and was frequently spotted at the Capitán San Luis stadium throughout the previous series.

"There is nothing more important than the support, affection, and respect of the fans, whom I have always considered a second team. That also brought me back — their presence gives me energy," he noted.

Still fresh in the memory of Pinar del Río fans are the championships won during the so-called Golden Series, in the 53rd edition, and at the 2015 Caribbean Series in San Juan, Puerto Rico — all under Urquiola's guidance.

"In a team, everything must work together. No one is indispensable, but everyone is important. It is a group dynamic in which each person must feel part of both the victories and the defeats," said the seasoned strategist, who will now pursue his fourth championship title as manager of Cuba's westernmost team.

During the event, the contributions of Alexander Urquiola at the helm of the Vegueros were also recognized, as were the most outstanding athletes from the roster during the LXIV National Baseball Series.