The Senate of the Republic honors the career of Vitelio Mejía and Junior Noboa
In a solemn ceremony led by the President of the Upper House, Ricardo de los Santos, the Senate of the Republic granted special recognition to Vitelio Mejía Ortiz and Milcíades Arturo (Junior) Noboa Díaz. The distinction, promoted by Senator Gustavo Lara Salazar, celebrates the outstanding careers of both leaders and their fundamental contributions to the strengthening and development of baseball in the Dominican Republic.
During the ceremony, the President of the Senate highlighted that sport is an essential pillar of national identity, capable of uniting the Dominican people. “Sport is lived with the heart, and those of us who follow it know the value of every play, every victory, and every moment that fills us with pride,” expressed De los Santos, underscoring that this tribute seeks to exalt the perseverance and legacy of those who have held our flag high.
Vitelio Mejía: Leadership and modernization in LIDOM
The resolution distinguishing Vitelio Mejía Ortiz highlights his management at the helm of the Dominican Professional Baseball League (LIDOM). His leadership has been key to the institution’s modernization, driving significant advances such as:
- The implementation of more transparent processes and sports integrity standards.
- The constant updating of competition regulations.
- The historic establishment of free agency in the winter circuit.
This recognition represents more than a personal honor: it embraces a life dedicated to service, work, and baseball.
Vitelio Mejía Ortiz
Junior Noboa: A comprehensive baseball benchmark
For his part, Junior Noboa was recognized for his long career that spans from his time as an active player—with stints on teams such as Leones del Escogido, Caimanes del Sur, and Estrellas Orientales—to his outstanding work as an executive. His role as Vice President of Baseball Operations for Latin America for the Arizona Diamondbacks and his tenure as National Baseball Commissioner have been decisive in promoting local talent.
I receive this recognition with great humility and with the commitment to continue working for our children and youth, so that they can achieve their dreams in baseball, without abandoning their studies.
Junior Noboa
Senator Gustavo Lara Salazar, the initiative’s sponsor, highlighted the importance of recognizing these figures while they are still alive. According to the legislator, their combined work has turned baseball into a key industry for the country and a constant source of pride for all Dominicans. The event was attended by various legislators, who supported this initiative that reaffirms the State’s commitment to sports excellence.
