Navegantes del Magallanes begins LVBP season preparations

The Navegantes del Magallanes have begun preparations for the 2026/27 Venezuelan Professional Baseball League (LVBP) season as they aim to defend their recent title. Sports manager Federico Rojas confirmed that several key players, including Renato Núñez, Felipe Rivero, and Luis Sardiñas, have already joined early practices.

Rojas detailed the expected arrival of other players, noting that Diego Velásquez and Luis Suisbel are expected to be available from the start of the campaign. Carlos Rodríguez is projected to join in November, while Bryan Mata and Enmanuel De Jesús are anticipated to bolster the roster toward the end of the regular season.

However, the team faces an immediate challenge as infielder Rougned Odor will be unavailable for the first 13 games of the season due to a suspension for violating the league's anti-doping policy. Rojas acknowledged that losing Odor's presence is difficult but emphasized that his leadership within the clubhouse will remain a vital asset to the team during his absence.