PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic — The eyes of the sporting world will turn to the shores of the Dominican Republic as the Latin American Baseball Hall of Fame (Salón de la Fama del Béisbol Latino) officially announced that its 12th Induction Ceremony for the Class of 2025 will take place on Monday, February 16th, in the heart of Punta Cana.
This year’s ceremony is set to be a historic celebration of Caribbean and Latin American excellence on the diamond. The 2025 class features a legendary lineup of icons who have left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball (MLB) and international competition.
A Star-Studded Class of Legends
The induction will honor five titans of the game:
- Bartolo Colón (Dominican Republic): The beloved “Big Sexy,” known for his incredible longevity and becoming the winningest Latin American pitcher in MLB history.
- Miguel Tejada (Dominican Republic): The “Miggy” era shortstop, a former American League MVP and multi-time All-Star.
- Julio César Franco (Dominican Republic): A marvel of fitness and skill who played professionally well into his late 40s, earning multiple Silver Slugger awards.
- Adrián González (Mexico): One of the most consistent first basemen of his generation, representing Mexico with distinction throughout his stellar career.
- Francisco Rodríguez (Venezuela): Known as “K-Rod,” the fierce closer who holds the single-season record for saves in MLB history.
Event Details and Venue
The official induction festivities will be hosted at the luxurious Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino. This world-class venue in the Bávaro-Punta Cana area will serve as the backdrop for an evening dedicated to preserving the historical legacy of Latin American ballplayers.
The ceremony will be led by renowned sports journalists Enrique Rojas and Natacha Peña. According to Robinson Paredes, Executive Director of the institution, the event will draw a high-profile crowd, including legendary sports figures, top-tier MLB executives, and representatives from the various organizations associated with this year’s honorees.
Preserving a Legacy
The Latin American Baseball Hall of Fame continues its vital mission of honoring the contributions of players from across the region. By bringing this event to Punta Cana, the organization highlights the Dominican Republic’s status as a global powerhouse for baseball talent and a premier destination for international sports tourism.
For fans and historians alike, the February 16th ceremony promises to be an emotional tribute to the grit, passion, and cultural impact of Latin American athletes in the “Great American Pastime.”
