Toros del Este intensify their preparation for the 2026-27 LIDOM season
The Toros del Este organization has begun to take shape ahead of the upcoming Dominican Professional Baseball League (LIDOM) season. With the goal of consolidating a competitive core, the La Romana-based team announced the integration of key figures who promise to elevate the team’s level of play from day one.
Among the new additions are the experienced catcher Pedro Severino, the talented infielders Welbyn Francisca and Dawell Lugo, as well as reliever José Adames, who are already working under the supervision of the coaching staff at Francisco A. Micheli Stadium.
Pedro Severino leads the catching position
Following his arrival to the franchise via free agency, Pedro Severino is shaping up to be the starting catcher. The Gold Glove winner from the previous season arrives in La Romana with the firm intention of contributing his experience and winning mentality.
I bring a lot of things to the team because I have always been a winner and what I like is to win.
Pedro Severino
Young talent and veteran presence in the infield
The depth of the infield is bolstered by the arrival of Welbyn Francisca, a Cleveland Guardians prospect and the first pick of the 2024 Draft. Francisca comes off an outstanding performance in the minor leagues, where he combined power and speed, reaching the Double-A level. Meanwhile, Dawell Lugo, recognized for his defensive ability by winning a Gold Glove in the 2021-22 season, will provide the necessary veteran presence to stabilize the Bulls’ hot corner.
Preseason schedule
To ensure the team arrives in optimal condition for Opening Day, the Toros have scheduled a series of nine exhibition games:
- September 28: vs. Estrellas Orientales (11:00 a.m. in La Romana)
- September 29: vs. Italy National Team (11:00 a.m. in La Romana)
- October 1: vs. Estrellas Orientales (11:00 a.m. in San Pedro)
- October 2: vs. Italy National Team (11:00 a.m. in La Romana)
- October 5: vs. Estrellas Orientales (5:00 p.m. in La Romana)
- October 7: vs. Tigres del Licey (5:00 p.m. in La Romana)
- October 9: vs. Leones del Escogido (10:00 a.m. in Boca Chica)
- October 12: vs. Leones del Escogido (10:00 a.m. in La Romana)
- October 13: vs. Estrellas Orientales (6:00 p.m. in San Pedro)
Opening Day
The wait for the bullfighting fans will end on Friday, October 16. The Toros del Este will officially debut in the 2026-27 season by hosting the Estrellas Orientales at the Francisco A. Micheli Stadium, starting at 7:30 at night, marking the beginning of the road to the championship.
