WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC: POOL A - CUBA VS PANAMA

March 10, 2023

Luis Ortiz

Taichung Intercontinental Baseball Stadium

Team Panama

Pregame Press Conference

Q. So since the Netherlands game, have you guys changed up anything in the lineup, anything defensively for today's game against Cuba?

LUIS ORTIZ: No, sir. Good morning to you guys.

No, we are going to go with the same lineup. We have a different pitcher but we'll come out here today, and we've got to get a win.

Q. And how are you guys -- Cuba had a long, wild game last night, early start today. How are you guys feeling coming into? How are the players feeling?

LUIS ORTIZ: Well, it feels the way we felt the night before. You've got a long night. Not much sleep, and you come back out here. Hopefully we can take advantage of that rest and play a good game today.

Q. Today's starting pitcher Andy Otero, he participated in the Caribbean series for several times. Could you explain his experience against this Cuban team? Did he have any experience against Cuba?

LUIS ORTIZ: If I heard you correct, if he had experience pitching? He's a kid -- that's what he said -- against Cuba? I don't think he has pitched against Cuba before. This is probably going to be the first time.

But he's a pitcher that has experience. He pitched in the Dominican winter leagues for the last three years, so I think he's up for the challenge.