Pedro José "Cheito" Rodríguez, died in Cienfuegos at the age of 65

February 15, 2021

Cuban baseball is in mourning because ballplayer Pedro José "Cheíto" Rodríguez passed away on Saturday in his native city of Cienfuegos, at age 65, as a result of kidney failure, reported the official publication Jit.

The sudden death of Pedro José (he had recently begun dialysis), constitutes an irreparable loss for Cuban sports and baseball.

Cheíto impressed from his debut in Cuban national series and international events with the Cuba team. The legendary commentator Bobby Salamanca baptized him as the "Home Run King," for his ability to connect big hits.

Third baseman and slugger from the youth categories, he was part of several Cuba teams in the 1970s-1980s, with which he was World Champion in Colombia 1976, Italy 1978, Japan 1980 and Cuba 1984. Gold medalist in the VII, VIII and IX Pan American Games and in the XIII Central American and Caribbean Games and silver medalist in the XIV, Havana 1982.

Grandson, nephew and son of great Cuban ballplayers, Pedro José's is an inevitable name when talking about home run hitters in the National Series. For many, in fact, he is considered the greatest slugger to ever play in revolutionary baseball.

Multiple condolence messages were generated on Saturday through social networks over the death of the ballplayer.

He achieved a frequency of one home run every 12.69 official at-bats, a reason that earned him the nickname: "Go ahead, Mr. Home Run," was heard on the radio waves in the voice of the legendary Bobby Salamanca.

The news hurts. The "Home Run King" leaves us physically, an emblematic figure of #Baseball and #CubanSports in general. From #InderCuba we share the sorrow with family and friends of Pedro José Rodríguez. pic.twitter.com/wTvh5qN7gJ

— Osvaldo C. Vento Montiller (@CMontiller) February 13, 2021

"The 'Home Run King' leaves us physically, an emblematic figure of #Baseball and #CubanSports in general," added the official, who sent a message of condolence to family and friends.

Through that same social network, the head of the Cuban Olympic Committee, Roberto León Richards, also commented. "His commitment to #Cuba enhanced the affection he generated from his stature as a formidable home run hitter and athlete devoted to his team's cause," he wrote.

The national commissioner Ernesto Reinoso referred to "Cheíto's" distinguished presence in the talent development program" and announced that this Sunday a minute of silence will be dedicated to him prior to the Matanzas-Cienfuegos game, from the quarterfinals of the local season.

Many fans have added messages about Rodríguez's career, who was born on November 26, 1955. As a member of the national team, he won world, pan-american, central american and caribbean titles and intercontinental cups.