Skip to main content
Dominican baseball reflects broken system

THERE was little sleep in the days leading up to January 15.

Dozens of teenage baseball players across the Dominican Republic lay in bed, unable to close their eyes. They had batted, pitched and run until sore, sacrificing time away from family since they were children with hopes of returning with a life-changing pay day. Hopes of becoming the next David Ortiz or Pedro Martinez — big league stars with inconceivable financial security.

Suddenly, for some, that future they fought for was at risk, all because of one promising pitcher half a world away.

‘The demands are too much’

‘They don’t even look at you'

‘Willing to do anything’

No easy solutions in sight

Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Women’s football / 19 March 2025
19 March 2025
As the transformation of the game in Europe continues, Umea IK is among the unfashionable clubs of yesteryear who know they can no longer compete
Women’s Football / 4 February 2025
4 February 2025
Changes aim to give student athletes greater control over the start of their careers
Men’s football / 17 December 2024
17 December 2024
Baseball / 20 September 2024
20 September 2024
JAMES NALTON writes about the baseball player who was also a civil rights activist both within the sport, and outside of it