On Friday at 7:15 p.m., at Quisqueya Stadium Juan Marichal, the Leones del Escogido will kick off the 2026‑2027 season of the Dominican Republic Professional Baseball League República Dominicana (LIDOM) with starter Jeremy Rhoades. The 33‑year‑old right‑hander will take the mound against the Tigres del Licey with the promise of a season full of challenges.
Rhoades, a veteran with international experience
The American pitcher arrived in the Dominican Republic after his participation in the Mexican Baseball League (LMB) championship series with the Olmecas de Tabasco. In Mexico, Rhoades finished his campaign with 7 wins, 4 losses, an ERA of 3.54, a WHIP of 1.29 and 71 strikeouts in 89 innings.
In the 2018‑2019 season, the player bolstered the Águilas Cibaeñas, posting an ERA of 1.38 and 12 strikeouts in 13 innings of work. His experience in Dominican baseball gives him valuable knowledge of the field and the local style of play.
Goal: a third consecutive crown
Club president Ramón Santiago emphasized that the Leones’ goal is to achieve a third consecutive championship. “The expectation is the same: go after the crown. We are clear about the goal, but we know that achieving it is a process that requires confidence and execution,” Santiago said.
Santiago highlighted the presence of key players from the back‑to‑back championship, such as Erik González, Junior Lake, Sócrates Brito, Yamaico Navarro, Franchy Cordero, José Marmolejos, Alex Colomé and Héctor Neris. Their experience is considered essential to secure another title.
A united and resilient team
The executive highlighted the harmony and brotherhood that characterize the team. “We are known for being a resilient team that is always united. That is what defines us,” he explained.
For Santiago, fan support is essential. “When you come to the park, we are better,” he commented, emphasizing the importance of the supporters’ backing in every game.
Source credits: deultimominuto.com
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