Santo Domingo. The 2025-2026 season of the Dominican Republic Professional Baseball League (LIDOM) begins, promising a competition full of intensity and talent from the very first moment.
This season stands out for the presence of players with experience in the Major Leagues and high-level prospects. The dedication is for the immortal of Cooperstown, Juan Marichal.
Teams Analysis
Here’s a look at the six teams competing for glory this winter season:
Licey Tigers
The current runners-up, led by Gilbert Gómez and under the management of Audo Vicente, seek consistency. They have figures like Mel Rojas Jr., Emilio Bonifacio, Gustavo Núñez and the MLB reinforcement Griffin Conine.
In pitching, César Valdés leads the rotation.
Cibao Eagles
The Águilas begin a new stage with René Francisco, Gián Guzmán (general manager) and Luis “Pipe” Urueta (manager). Leody Taveras, Juan Lagares, Aderlín Rodríguez (MVP of last tournament) and Major League starter Triston McKenzie are their key players.
Leones del Escogido
Los Leones del Escogido, defending champions, present a new direction with Carlos Peña as manager and Alex Cintrón as manager. Their roster includes Alexander Canario, César Prieto, Martín Maldonado and veterans like Sócrates Brito, Yamaico Navarro and Zoilo Almonte.
Toros del Este
Los Toros del Este debut a new manager in Víctor Estévez, with Jesús Mejía as general manager. Eloy Jiménez, Jhonkensy Noel, Brayan De La Cruz and Felnin Celestén, the number one pick of the last draft, are some of their outstanding players.
Estrellas Orientales
With Ángel Ovalles as the new manager and Fernando Tatis in charge, the Estrellas are betting on a combination of experience and youth. Miguel Sanó, Eugy Rosario, Rodolfo Castro, and Raimel Tapia lead their offense.
Gigantes del Cibao
The Gigantes del Cibao, with Alfredo Acebal Rizek as President of Operations and General Manager, and José Leger as manager, arrive with a renewed structure.
We have very high expectations; it will be a year of great competitiveness among the six teams.
Acebal Rizek highlighted the work on the restructuring of the coaching staff, management, and roster, which includes Gary Sánchez, Pablo Reyes, Leury García, Kelvin Gutiérrez, and Carlos Franco.
Furthermore, he celebrated the official inclusion of the Cibao Series in New York on the calendar, highlighting the opportunity for Dominicans in the U.S. to enjoy local talent.
