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They were especially successful in landing catcher Richel Lopez Martinez, who, according to our research, played in Cuba’s top professional league for eight seasons. The ambidextrous hitter notably accumulated a batting average of .350 during the 2021-2022 regular calendar.
“When I found out he was now living in Montreal, I jumped at the chance!” says Johan Ochoa, still player-manager and general manager for the Castors.
“He’s clearly a mid-lineup guy who will help us tremendously. Because despite our championship, we sometimes lacked punch last year. The arrival of Richel will allow us to shift everyone, and therefore improve our depth.
Despite his wealth of experience, the 29-year-old athlete should not be too out of place alongside teammates like Leonardo Ochoa, Douglas Toro and Dave Gauthier. Fireworks on the horizon.
Two big returns
And we haven’t even told you about Déric Lamontagne yet. Having now completed his university studies, the talented shortstop should be back in Quebec in time for the opening game on May 19, and then remain available until the end of the season, including the playoffs.
Castors fans will also be delighted with the return of Emmanuel Forcier, now recovered from his injury. “Manu” will undoubtedly occupy a new position since the formula including Gauthier as center fielder and Jean-François Delisle at first base has given very good results.
Lamontagne and Forcier are not acquisitions in the pure sense of the term, but they were not in uniform when the champagne was slashed on October 11.
On the mound, the Valois team will once again be able to count on Marcos Encarnacion, Philippe Saad, Bryan Corona and Gauthier, who will probably continue to form the best quartet in the LBMQ. José Lalancette was added to the pen by virtue of the exchange concluded with the new Guerriers de Granby Thursday afternoon.
“In baseball, you can never have too many quality arms and bats. That will never change!” stressed DG Ochoa.
Only one important departure is to be noted: that of receiver Jean-Philippe Martin, sent to the Expos in a transaction involving several draft picks. This turnaround which took on its full meaning with the signing of Lopez Martinez. Gabriel Thibodeau will return to a role of reservist, due to lack of availability.
As we told you, the balance of change leans — very strongly — to one side.
Respect for Oscar
The Castors will therefore begin the defense of their title in Granby this Saturday evening, when they will be arch favorites against an expansion club. In fact, the home side will probably need a standout performance from Oscar Nakaoshi and several very timely slaps to pull off a huge upset.
Johan Ochoa, however, seems to take nothing for granted.
“As champions, all the clubs will send us their best pitchers this season. Even if Granby doesn’t have the best lineup, we will still have to put points on the board. It won’t be easy, because from what I understand, their left-handedness is excellent.”
Encarnacion will be the starter for Acton Vale, if you were looking for another reason to turn up at Stade Napoléon-Fontaine.
In closing, know that Ochoa welcomes the arrival of the Warriors within the B45 division, in the place occupied by the Expos.
“It’s pretty impressive to see how the league is growing every year. And if Granby improves in a few seasons, it will give us another great rivalry, in addition to Drummond and Saint-Jean.
2024-05-11 08:01:39
#Beavers #improved
