Dominican Republic presents luxury roster for the U-18 World Cup Qualifier
The Dominican Baseball Federation (Fedom) has revealed a roster loaded with young, highly-rated talent to represent the country in the U-18 World Cup Qualifier. The tournament, which will be held 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.
Among the most prominent figures on this team are outfielder Argeni Fernández and infielders Leanders Matos and Ricki Moneys. The latter, ranked as the number 15 prospect in his Major League organization, arrives following a brilliant performance in the Dominican Summer League (DSL), where he recorded a .289 batting average, 21 extra-base hits, and 28 stolen bases.
A first season that left us with many lessons and growth in maturity and focus. It is the first time the three of us are here and we are going to represent the Dominican Republic with pride.
Ricki Moneys, U-18 prospect
Talent with a Major League stamp
The Dominican roster stands out for the versatility and discipline of its members. Leanders Matos, originally from San Cristóbal, arrives at the tournament after a campaign where he recorded an impressive 1.045 OPS, hitting 10 home runs and driving in 52 runs. His ability to select pitches and his discipline at the plate make him a fundamental piece for the team’s aspirations.
For his part, Argeni Fernández, the center fielder from Yamasá, brings speed and defensive reliability. During his debut, Fernández demonstrated a great ability to get on base, combining a .278 average with 21 stolen bases, establishing himself as an integral player on the field.
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, outfielder
Road to the 2027 World Cup
The competition will be hosted at the IPL Academy facilities in Guerra. The main objective of the Dominican national team is to secure its qualification for the 2027 U-18 World Cup, which will be held in China. To achieve this, the team must navigate a difficult Group A, where it will face the representatives of the United States, Brazil, and Curaçao.
The tournament format provides for the top two teams from each group to advance to the Super Round, where the four World Cup tickets will be decided. Fans will be able to follow every match through the official broadcast network, which includes VTV Canal 32 and various television and radio platforms that will bring the events to the entire country and the Dominican community abroad.
