Former MLB player Yadiel Rivera to lead Puerto Rico at 2026 Central American Games

The Puerto Rico Baseball Federation (FBPR) has unveiled its 24-player roster for the upcoming XXV Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo in 2026. The team will be led by former Major League Baseball player Yadiel Rivera, with former MLB star Juan 'Igor' González, a two-time American League Most Valuable Player, serving as manager.

The selection predominantly features active players from Puerto Rico's Superior Double-A Baseball League. The roster is balanced with 12 position players and 12 pitchers, according to a statement released by the FBPR. This composition aims to leverage the talent pool within the domestic league for international competition.

Beyond Rivera, who played six seasons in MLB, other notable players include outfielder Rubén Castro, a two-time Double-A MVP and batting champion, and left-handed pitcher Luis Leroy Cruz. Young talent Jorhan Laboy, who has impressed with the national U-23 team, is also included. The roster also welcomes new faces such as Anthony Borrero, the 2026 Double-A Pitcher of the Year, and MVP winners Edison Mora and José 'Pocholo' Rivera.

Puerto Rico is placed in Group A alongside the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and Curaçao. Their opening game is scheduled for July 31 against the Dominican Republic at the Estadio Quisqueya Juan Marichal in Santo Domingo. Subsequent group stage matches will be against Cuba on August 1 and Curaçao on August 2. The tournament's second round is set for August 4-6, with medal games scheduled for August 7.