The LMB punishes charro Benjamín Gil

The Mexican Baseball League (LMB) announced that manager Benjamín Gil of the Charros de Jalisco was sanctioned after committing unsportsmanlike conduct in the eighth inning of the second game of the series against the Toros de Tijuana, played Wednesday at Mobil Park.

"Based on LMB regulations, an analysis of game videos, and in accordance with the umpires' report, he is being suspended for two games, beginning Thursday, June 5, and fined," the LMB said in a statement.

In a statement, the LMB noted that it promotes respect among all those involved in the game, rejects all forms of unsportsmanlike behavior, and seeks to maintain the image of a family-friendly spectacle.

Meanwhile, Tijuana native Jonathan Aranda confirmed his participation in the team that Mexico will take to the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

The Tampa Bay Rays player is the best first baseman in the entire American League in terms of batting average (.326), surpassed only by Freddie Freeman (.363) of the Dodgers in the National League. Aranda has sparked interest from the national team, which has already contacted him to represent Mexico next spring.

“Of course, I'm going to be on the team,” the 27-year-old infielder announced.

"I've already given my word to Rodrigo (López, manager of the Tricolor) and the Mexicans. I'll be there, contributing and proudly wearing the Mexican jersey."

Experience

The Rays player played in three of the six games Mexico played in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, managing only a single hit. The experience, and especially the support he received from Randy Arozarena and Isaac Paredes, teammates at the time with Tampa Bay, were key to his adaptation.

"It was great to have them as teammates and wear the Mexico jersey together. They're players who have had a lot of experience here in the Major Leagues; it's nice to watch them and learn from them how they play the game, the discipline they display on the field and off it," the player said.

This year, the Tijuana native made the Rays' Opening Day roster and has remained a fixture on Kevin Cash's team.