Navegantes del Magallanes bolster roster for LVBP season

The Navegantes del Magallanes are strengthening their roster for the 2026-2027 LVBP season with key additions during preseason training. Major League Baseball catcher Francisco Álvarez has joined the team and is adapting to a new role. Due to restrictions from the New York Mets, Álvarez will primarily serve as a first baseman and designated hitter rather than a catcher, a significant shift from his 417 MLB games played exclusively in catching or DH roles.

Under the management of Hall of Famer Yadier Molina, Magallanes recently secured a 10-3 victory in a friendly match against Cardenales de Lara in Valencia. The preseason game also saw the return of several players, including Luis Suisbel and Jhostynxon García. Pitcher Ricardo Sánchez, the previous season’s Carrao Bracho Pitcher of the Year, started the game, pitching 3.1 scoreless innings with three strikeouts, earning praise from Molina as the team's projected opening day starter.