Nelson Cruz Honored with Dedication in Double-A Youth League
The Dominican Baseball Federation (FEDOBE) has announced a significant distinction for the 2026 season of its Double A National Youth League. The tournament edition will be dedicated to former Major League slugger Nelson Cruz, in recognition of his exemplary career on and off the field. The official announcement took place during the presentation of the tournament at the Ministry of Sports. The event was attended by Juan Núñez, president of FEDOBE, along with various sports authorities and representatives of the franchises that will participate. The first edition of the Double A Youth League is scheduled to begin on April 29 at the IPL Academy facilities. Eight teams will participate in this competition, divided into two groups. The main objective of this league is to offer opportunities to young talents who have not yet been signed by Major League Baseball organizations. It seeks to serve as a development platform and showcase to boost their careers.The tournament will consist of a schedule of 104 games in the regular season, with games scheduled on Tuesdays and Fridays in doubleheaders. In addition, it will include an All-Star Game with skills competitions and home run derbies. This league will serve as a basis for identifying talent with a view to the U-18 Pre-World Cup of 2026. The Double A National Youth League will extend until the month of August and will bring together prospects from different regions of the country, consolidating itself as a new platform for the development of Dominican youth baseball.It is an honor to recognize a figure who has always proudly represented the Dominican Republic.
Chiqui Mejía
