Leones del Escogido bolster their pitching staff with Lael Lockhart and Brett de Geus
The Leones del Escogido, current back-to-back champions of the Dominican Professional Baseball League (LIDOM), have confirmed the signing of two foreign pitchers for the 2026-27 season. Left-hander Lael Lockhart and right-hander Brett de Geus join the capital city team with the goal of strengthening the pitching staff and defending the crown won in the previous campaign.
The scarlet organization will begin its official training on September 25th at the New York Yankees complex, located in Boca Chica, preparing for the start of the winter tournament scheduled for October 16th.
Lael Lockhart: A return of confidence
Left-handed pitcher Lael Lockhart, 28, returns to the Leones’ roster following his brilliant performance in the 2025-26 championship. During his previous stint, the American posted a 2.57 ERA, achieving a 1-0 record and 17 strikeouts over 21 innings of work.
The team’s general manager, Carlos Peña, positively valued this addition by highlighting the pitcher’s quality and character:
Lael demonstrated with us the quality of his arm and the ability to compete. We know what he can contribute and we trust his repertoire. We are happy to have him back and we hope he will be a fundamental piece of our pitching staff.
Carlos Peña, General Manager
During the recent summer, Lockhart maintained a good work pace in the Minor League system with the Detroit and Seattle organizations, accumulating a 4-5 record and 94 strikeouts in 100 innings pitched.
Brett de Geus brings Major League experience
To reinforce the final part of the bullpen, the Escogido has added right-hander Brett de Geus, who has previous experience in the Major Leagues. The 28-year-old pitcher arrives after an outstanding performance in the Mexican Baseball League, where he recorded impressive numbers:
- 1.53 ERA.
- 23 saves.
- 0.78 WHIP.
- 58 strikeouts in 47 innings.
With these moves, the Leones del Escogido continue to structure a competitive team, focused on maintaining their dominance within the LIDOM and seeking the Dominican professional baseball title once again in the 2026-27 season.
