Lázaro Marino Junco Neninger

Lázaro Marino Junco Neninger (Limonar, Matanzas, 1958 – June 1, 2026) was one of the most powerful hitters in the history of Cuban baseball. Affectionately known as "Papá Jonrón" (Mr. Home Run), he became the first Cuban player to reach 400 home runs in the National Series, finishing his career with 405.

Born in Limonar, in the province of Matanzas, Junco played 18 seasons with teams from his home province: Occidentales, Citricultores, Henequeneros, and the Cocodrilos de Matanzas. Over that career, he led the home run charts in 11 campaigns and was one of the most feared hitters in Cuban baseball of his era.

His imposing physique and powerful wrists allowed him to send the ball over the outfield walls on countless occasions, thrilling fans in Matanzas and earning the respect of opponents and teammates alike. He would round the bases with an almost ceremonial deliberateness and was recognized as much for his noble character as for his power at the plate.

After retiring as a player, he remained connected to baseball, frequently visiting the Estadio Victoria de Girón to watch the next generation of players. In his later years, the colossus from Limonar faced a prolonged illness — esophageal cancer — with the same courage he showed in the most critical moments of any game. He passed away on June 1, 2026, leaving an indelible mark on Cuban baseball and on the memory of the people of Matanzas.