Dominican Republic presents a luxury roster for the U-18 World Cup Qualifier
The Dominican Baseball Federation (Fedom) has revealed the official roster that will represent the country in the upcoming U-18 World Cup Qualifier, an event that will take place on Dominican soil from October 22 to 29. With the goal of securing their ticket to the 2027 World Cup in China, the tricolor team will feature a prominent presence of prospects belonging to the Milwaukee Brewers organization.
Young talent with a Major League stamp
Among the figures leading the team is the talented Ricki Moneys, a native of San Pedro de Macorís and ranked as the number 15 prospect in his organization. After receiving a US$1.15 million signing bonus, Moneys proved his worth in the Dominican Summer League (DSL), where he was selected for the All-Star team after recording a .289 average, with five home runs and 28 stolen bases in 53 games.
It is the first time the three of us are here and we are going to represent the Dominican Republic. A first season that left us with many lessons and growth in maturity and focus.
Ricki Moneys, U-18 prospect
Alongside him, Leanders Matos, a native of San Cristóbal, stands out, having had an outstanding performance in the DSL with a 1.045 OPS and 52 RBIs. His plate discipline and contact ability solidify him as a key piece for the national team’s offensive scheme.
It is a beautiful experience to represent our country for the first time. May we always stay positive and give one hundred percent.
Leanders Matos, infielder
Center fielder Argeni Fernández, originally from Yamasá, completes this core of talent. Fernández stood out in his debut for his speed on the basepaths and a remarkable ability to get on base, recording a .406 percentage during the season.
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 grounds in Guerra, where the Dominican team will seek to dominate Group A against their counterparts from the United States, Brazil, and Curaçao. The tournament format qualifies the top two teams from each group to the Super Round, the stage where the four available tickets to the 2027 World Cup will be decided.
The event will feature extensive television and radio coverage, allowing fans to closely follow the performance of the future stars of Dominican baseball on their path to achieving international glory.
