UPDATE: The Dominican Republic will host the Detroit Tigers for two exhibition games on March 3 and 4, 2024, at Estadio Quisqueya Juan Marichal, just ahead of the World Baseball Classic. This announcement, made by baseball commissioner Rob Manfred during a press conference at the winter meetings, carries a poignant significance as the games are dedicated to the victims of the tragic April 8 roof collapse at Santo Domingo’s Jet Set nightclub, which claimed over 200 lives.
The games will take place in the heart of Santo Domingo, where the legacy of the sport runs deep. The event is especially meaningful for local baseball icons, including Nelson Cruz, the Dominican Republic’s general manager, and Albert Pujols, the team’s manager, who were present at the announcement. Cruz expressed his commitment to honoring the memory of those lost, including former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel and Cruz’s own sister.
This initiative originated from a discussion last offseason between Cruz and Omar Minaya, a special assistant for the New York Yankees and former general manager of both the New York Mets and Montreal Expos. As part of the event, Major League Baseball (MLB) and promoter UEPA will make donations to the Dominican Red Cross, further emphasizing the community’s spirit of support during difficult times.
The Dominican Republic is set to launch its World Baseball Classic campaign on March 6 against Nicaragua, alongside teams from Israel, the Netherlands, and Venezuela. While the country has hosted spring training games in the past, these exhibition matchups mark a significant moment as they prepare for the international competition.
The upcoming events are generating excitement and anticipation among fans and players alike. As the Dominican Republic gears up for the World Baseball Classic, the exhibition games against the Tigers will not only showcase local talent but also serve as a reminder of resilience and community in the face of tragedy.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Dominican Republic honors its past while looking towards a competitive future in the world of baseball.