CULIACÁN, SINALOA. – Preseason preparations for the Tomateros de Culiacán continue at full speed. While much of the roster enters the final stretch of exhibition play in Baja California Sur, the Sinaloan capital welcomed two high-impact additions as right-handed pitcher Manny Barreda and young catcher Ildefonso Ruíz officially reported to camp.
The veteran right-hander, a native of Sahuarita, Arizona, arrived ready to anchor the rotation once again, solidifying his role as one of the key pillars of the Culiacán pitching staff for the upcoming season.
"I'm excited to be close to starting a new season. The team looks great, you can see everyone's commitment, and that really motivates me as well," expressed the veteran pitcher.
Meanwhile, the catching depth received a boost of energy with the arrival of Ildefonso Ruíz. "Ponchito," who made his debut in the guinda jersey during the 2023-2024 campaign, joined camp focused on securing his spot as one of the team's primary catchers for the 2026-2027 Liga Mexicana del Pacífico season.
"I'm thrilled to wear these colors—my grandfather played here, so putting on this jersey will always be a point of pride. My main focus is arriving in peak physical condition and being ready for opening day," noted Ruíz.
The squad remaining in Culiacán will continue daily workouts at the ISDE facilities, while the road roster in Los Cabos wraps up its final "La Baja Beis" showcase tonight against the Cañeros de Los Mochis.