Cuba was excited for its first Little League Team Bayamo and their first visit to LLWS. The team was ready for an intense match under the guidance of coveted coach Jose Perez. However, in unforeseeable circumstances, coach Perez disappeared from the International Grove Complex on August 19.
This baffling revelation hit the little league team when they found that their coach is missing from the complex, and no one has any clue about his whereabouts since Saturday night.
Little League International spokesperson Kevin Fountain issued a formal statement about his sudden disappearance–
“Jose Perez, a coach with Bayamo, Cuba, at the Little League Baseball World Series, left the Little League International Grove late last night, Saturday, August 19, and did not return. Little League International has communicated to all appropriate authorities and will ensure the Bayamo Little League team continues to have the best support and experience while in Williamsport.”
Who Is Jose Perez?
Coach Jose Perez was a decorated mentor to the young children aspiring to be a part of the Little League. He trained the rookie team and prepared strategies for the win. Sources say that he was a dedicated coach to the kids, honing the skills of each little member.
His hard work was reflected in the team’s performance against Panama, even in his absence. Even though Bayamo lost, people poured in accolades for the neck-to-neck competition, losing by just one point.
The spectators noted that both teams showcased fierce battles with stellar skills and determination. However, Panama proved its edge with their prolific pitching staff. Hence, Team Bayamo was ousted from the elimination game at Volunteer Stadium.
Meanwhile, the Panama team is qualified for the next round and is now a step closer to the much-anticipated championship game.
Team Bayamo’s journey ends at this tournament, and their coach is nowhere to be found.
What Happened to Jose Perez?
The Little League World Series is one of the most coveted titles for young players. Every matchup is an inch closer to being marked in the Hall of Fame. Team Bayamo was under tremendous pressure to prove their stance as a new team in the series.
Coach Perez had trained the team for intense matches. But the team needed him the most on the sidelines of the field to guide them against one of the most prominent teams.
According to the reports, Little League and the Cuban Baseball Federation extended a hand of commitment to their collaboration to 2025. And just hours after that, Coach Perez was declared missing from the complex.
Latest Update On Jose Perez’s Missing Case
As the days went by, the worry grew further for Jose Perez and his well-being. However, in fortunate news, he was found in Barcelona, Spain, after a few days of missing. Although, the mysterious circumstances under which he disappeared are yet to be revealed.
In the latest update, a surveillance camera caught Jose Perez leaving the area in a vehicle driven by another person.
Some reports also suggest that he made a stop in Mexico before continuing his journey to Barcelona. However, how, why, and when he ended up on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean needs more details, insights, and Perez’s statement to imply the reason for his disappearance.
What is your take on this sudden disappearance? Do you believe coach Perez was defecting? Let us know in the comments section below.
