The Venezuelan Professional Baseball League (LVBP) is already looking ahead to the 2026-2027 season, with managerial positions taking center stage. Two teams, the Navegantes del Magallanes and the Caribes de Anzoátegui, appear poised to retain their current leadership, while others are evaluating their options.
Both Magallanes and Caribes have publicly expressed their desire to extend the contracts of their current managers, Yadier Molina and Asdrúbal Cabrera, respectively. Federico Rojas, speaking on behalf of Magallanes, stated, “We are working on that. And it extends to the rest of the staff who did a great job.” Reports indicate that Magallanes is seeking a multi-year deal to secure Molina’s future with the club.
Caribes are equally committed to Cabrera, with club president Rafael Gruszka emphatically stating, “We would never consider a manager other than Asdrúbal Cabrera, or a different technical staff for 26-27. We want everyone to repeat.” This strong endorsement suggests a swift and positive outcome to contract negotiations.
The potential continuity at Magallanes is particularly noteworthy, as Molina returned to manage the team during the 2025-2026 season, replacing Eduardo Pérez. Despite failing to reach the championship series in his previous stint with the club in 2022-2023, Molina expressed his determination to succeed. “I am a champion. My goal will always be to win the title, and I didn’t get to do it the first time, but now I have a second chance,” Molina said upon his return. He acknowledged learning from his initial experience and feeling more prepared this time around.
Magallanes and Caribes aren’t alone in securing their managerial positions. Bravos de Margarita has already extended the contract of Henry Blanco through the 2028-2029 season, citing the team’s confidence in his ability to develop talent. Cardenales de Lara has also secured their manager, César Izturis, for two years, ensuring his leadership through the 2026-2027 season.
However, not all LVBP teams have a clear picture of their managerial future. Tiburones de La Guaira and Leones del Caracas are reportedly aiming to initiate “new projects,” suggesting potential changes in leadership. The future of Oswaldo Guillén with Tigres de Aragua remains uncertain, while Lipso Nava’s contract with Águilas del Zulia has concluded, leaving his position open.
The early decisions regarding managers highlight the importance of stability in planning for the upcoming season. Having a manager in place allows teams to focus on import acquisitions, staff development, and international competition opportunities, such as the Serie de las Américas and Serie del Caribe. The LVBP is actively managing its most crucial roster – the one comprised of its managers – as teams prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The league is seeing a clear divide between teams prioritizing continuity and those seeking a fresh start. For Magallanes, Caribes, Margarita, and Lara, the focus is on building upon recent successes and maintaining a consistent vision. For others, the off-season presents an opportunity for significant change and a re-evaluation of their strategic direction.
