Dominican Republic presents luxury roster for the U-18 World Cup Qualifier
The Dominican Baseball Federation (Fedom) has revealed a roster loaded with young talent and highly-rated prospects to face the U-18 World Cup Qualifier. The event, which will take place on Dominican soil from October 22 to 29, will serve as a stage for the future stars of the Milwaukee Brewers organization to defend the national colors in search of their qualification for the 2027 World Cup.
Among the team’s main figures are outfielder Argeni Fernández and standout infielders Leanders Matos and Ricki Moneys. The latter, ranked as the number 15 prospect in his Major League organization, arrives following a stellar performance in the Dominican Summer League (DSL).
Young talent with Major League potential
Ricki Moneys, a native of San Pedro de Macorís, has become one of the most promising gems after signing a US$1.15 million bonus. His impact in the DSL was immediate, standing out for his batting power and defensive versatility between shortstop and third base. In 53 games, he recorded a .289 average, with five home runs and 28 stolen bases.
It is the first time the three of us are here and we are going to represent the Dominican Republic. It was a first season that left us with many lessons and growth in maturity and focus.
Ricki Moneys, infield prospect.
For his part, Leanders Matos, a native of San Cristóbal, arrives after an outstanding campaign where he recorded a 1.045 OPS, demonstrating enviable discipline at the plate. His numbers, which include 10 home runs and 52 RBIs, consolidate him as a key piece for the Dominican offense.
Speed and defense in the outfield
Center fielder Argeni Fernández, originally from Yamasá, brings a combination of contact and speed to the team. With an on-base percentage of .406 during his debut season, Fernández is shaping up to be a decisive player for the tricolor team’s aspirations.
Always focused and with my head held high. We are going to crush it. It is a source of pride for me and we are going to do it for our homeland.
Argeni Fernández, center fielder.
The road to the 2027 World Cup
The competition will be held at the IPL Academy grounds, in the municipality of Guerra. The Dominican Republic has been placed in Group A, where it will face the United States, Brazil, and Curaçao. The goal is clear: to finish among the top two in the group to advance to the Super Round and secure one of the four tickets available for the U-18 World Cup to be held in China in 2027.
- Group A: Dominican Republic, United States, Brazil, Curaçao.
- Group B: Venezuela, Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico.
- Group C: Colombia, Panama, Canada, Nicaragua.
Fans will be able to follow all the events of this tournament through extensive television and radio coverage, including VTV Channel 32, Panorama FM, Expreso 89.1 FM, Baní FM, Luna TV, Channel 25, and Canal América 1014 for the United States tri-state area.
