A new approach and a new voice”: Chosen explains Ramón Santiago's designation

SANTO DOMINGO.- The Leones del Escogido announced this Monday the dismissal of manager Alex Cintrón and pitching coach Wellington Cepeda, in a move that seeks to rethink the team's course after its most recent defeat against the Estrellas Orientales.

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The general manager of the scarlet team, Carlos Peña, made the official announcement and highlighted the organization's gratitude towards the outgoing technicians.

“We have concluded our working relationship with Cintrón and Cepeda with the utmost respect. We are infinitely grateful for their efforts and professionalism during their time with us,” Peña expressed.

As interim leader, Ramón Santiago was appointed, former Major League player and coach with experience in LIDOM and MLB. The team maintains a record of 13-18, tied in fifth position with the Tigres del Licey. Peña explained that the decision responds to the need to generate a new approach within the club.

“The reason behind this change is the desire to give the team a new approach and a new leadership voice. We have appointed Santiago as interim manager, who has vast experience both as a Lidom player and in the Major Leagues, not only on the field, but also as an instructor,” he added.

Alongside Santiago, Hatuey Mendoza will assume the pitching coordination, a role he arrives at backed by his experience in the minor league system of the Arizona Diamondbacks and his previous experience with the Tigres del Licey. Santiago, 46 years old, managed the Leones de Yucatán in the Mexican Baseball League this summer and has been a coach in the Major Leagues with the Detroit Tigers (2018-2022). He was also recently part of the Escogido coaching staff as a bench coach in the 2021-22 season. The team also reported the departure of Eduardo Núñez (quality control coach), Víctor Ramos (bullpen coach), and Hiram Bocachica (first base coach). The Lions will travel this Tuesday to Santiago to face the Águilas Cibaeñas at 7:30 p.m. at the Cibao Stadium.