Leones del Escogido bolster bullpen: Contreras and West to the rescue

Santo Domingo.- The general manager of the Leones del Escogido, Carlos Peña, has announced the incorporation of right-handed relievers Efrain Contreras and Derek West to the team’s active roster. Contreras, a 26-year-old Mexican pitcher, arrives after his participation in the Mexican Pacific League with the Yaquis de Obregón, where he recorded a 2-1 record, an ERA of 2.40, a WHIP of 1.00 and achieved 35 strikeouts in 30 innings. In addition, he led the circuit with 15 saves. His career includes experience in the Minor Leagues with the San Diego Padres and the Philadelphia Phillies between 2018 and 2024. He was also part of the champion teams of the Diablos Rojos del México in the Mexican Baseball League in 2024 and 2025.

Contreras brings youth, energy, and projection to our organization. We trust in his great talent and his willingness to seize this opportunity and contribute to the team at this key moment in the championship.

Carlos Peña

For his part, West, a 28-year-old American, comes from playing with the Indios de Mayagüez in the Roberto Clemente Professional Baseball League of Puerto Rico, where he had a 1-1 record, with an ERA of 2.19, a WHIP of 0.97 and 32 strikeouts in 24.1 innings. West also has experience in the Houston Astros’ Minor Leagues from 2019 to 2023, and has participated in the Mexican summer league since 2024. In Puerto Rico, he played with the Cangrejeros de Santurce in the 2022-23 season, achieving an ERA of 1.02, 21 strikeouts in 17.2 innings, and a WHIP of 0.73. In the 2024-25 season, he played with the Navegantes de Magallanes in Venezuela.

West also strengthens our pitching staff at this decisive stage. He is an arm with the ability to compete immediately, provide depth, and assume important responsibilities in high-pressure games.

Carlos Peña

Contreras and West will take the places of relievers Patrick Weigel and Patrick Halligan. The Lions will seek today to secure their spot in the final of the 2025-26 Lidom championship, facing the Gigantes del Cibao at 7:00 PM at the Julián Javier stadium in San Francisco de Macorís.