Pedro Medina: The Enduring Legacy of Cuba’s ‘Edmonton Hero’
A photo from the Granma Archive captures a moment of triumph, but the story of Pedro Medina extends far beyond a single image, resonating as a symbol of national pride and baseball brilliance in Cuba.
The night of May 12, 1988, remains etched in the memory of many Cubans, a moment when the nation collectively felt the power of a hero. Thirty-seven years ago, after 10:30 PM, Medina stepped up to the plate, facing Villareño pitcher Roberto Almarales. It was more than just a game; it was a display of national spirit, witnessed by workers, young people, veterans, scientists, and citizens from all walks of life, many moved to tears by the sheer weight of the moment.
Medina was nearing the end of his career, hitting .350 in what would be his final season with the Industriales. When the announcer, Tony Veiga, announced his presence, the stadium erupted in applause. Though his first at-bat resulted in a routine grounder, the ovation continued, a testament to his impact. Medina, affectionately known as “Pedrín” by his teammates, was saying goodbye to active sport as a 31-time industrialist.
His influence extended beyond the field. A teacher and researcher at the University of Sports, Medina was a scholar of the game, understanding its intricacies on a profound level. He inspired others, like Wushu instructor Roberto Vargas Lee, to embrace challenging positions, such as the catcher. Even after his playing days, Medina continued to inspire, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew him.
Medina’s life concluded this Monday, following surgical interventions, as reported by friend Rodolfo Puente, a man described as embodying the spirit of those who dedicate their lives to a cause. He was a beloved figure, a devoted husband to Mayra, and an exemplary father to Pedrito. Many, including those who frequented “Latin” – a gathering place for baseball enthusiasts – remember Medina fondly, alongside figures like Anglada, Kindelán, Víctor Mesa, and Antonio Pacheco.
Those who knew him personally recall his wisdom and generosity. One individual recounted feeling as enlightened after a conversation with Medina as they did reading his insightful analysis. He imparted a simple yet profound maxim: “Do not stop listening and observing, the ball is a magical world.”
Medina’s legacy is inextricably linked to a dramatic home run in Edmonton, Canada, where he tied the game against the Americans in the ninth inning. This moment, captured in national consciousness, solidified his status as a hero. He left behind a wealth of knowledge, sharing his insights during conversations at “Latin,” his cherished space.
“The ball is not to grab a bat and hit, it is a science,” he once explained. “It requires the constant exercise of communication and information, both in the game and before and after this. Without those attributes, you don’t win.” He emphasized the importance of understanding the opponent, analyzing player tendencies, and even studying the nuances of the playing field. “The ball game is a constant investigation,” he asserted, “with dissimilar questions that, when answering them, is the right or not of a hypothesis.”
Medina’s career was marked by success, both as a player and a manager, but his greatest achievement was capturing the hearts of Cuban fans. He left an undefeated record and a legacy that continues to inspire generations of baseball players and enthusiasts. His impact transcends statistics; it resides in the enduring spirit of a hero who understood that baseball, at its core, is a science, a constant pursuit of knowledge, and a testament to the power of observation.
