Rafael Castillo González

Cuban baseball player recognized as an outstanding pitcher. He was an ambidextrous pitcher.

He participated in 14 National Series and 7 Selective Series. A glory of Cuban sports, who has continued his path in baseball as a pitching coach.

He was born in San José de Cautillo, Jiguaní, current Granma province, in the bosom of a humble family of 18 siblings, 14 of them male.

Baseball got into his blood from a young age. Twelve of his brothers played baseball. His first performances in school competitions were not outstanding but he improved thanks to his determination and his first coach, Enerio Cruzata.

In 1970 he served military service in Camagüey and thanks to the speed of his pitches he joined the youth team of the territory for the national event of the category where he won 4 and did not lose. He began his time in the national and selective series and was part of the teams Mineros, Serranos, Orientales and Holguín where he was a workhorse for several years.

He obtained more than 100 victories and struck out more than 1000 batters. He participated in several international events wearing the national team uniform.

In an interview conducted with him some time ago he expressed:

"I feel like a person from Holguín. This province welcomed me like a son, I have achieved my greatest professional accomplishments here and I have always received affection as a reward for my dedication, first as an athlete, and now training pitchers. I love Holguín, its people, because it is a hospitable province that has contributed decisively to my spiritual enrichment. I am simply happy in this province."

Main national events
14 National Series
7 Selective Series
Series of the 10 Million
National Youth Championship

Main international events
Intercontinental Baseball Cup, Havana, 1979 – Gold Medal
Intercontinental Baseball Cup, Edmonton, Canada, 1981 – Silver Medal
Pan American Games in San Juan, Puerto Rico, 1979 – Gold Medal

Other events
He also participated in events held in Peru, Mexico, Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

Merits and distinctions
Distinction "Martyrs of Barbados"
10 best athletes of Holguín in 1979
10 best athletes of Holguín in 1981
Provided technical collaboration in Brazil in 1997.

Resides in Holguín province