Baseball, the national pastime of many Caribbean nations, has been shaped by events that helped define the sport’s identity in the region. One of the most influential milestones was the creation of the Caribbean Series, a tournament that brings together the champions of the Caribbean winter leagues. Behind this visionary project stood two Venezuelan pioneers—Óscar “El Negro” Prieto and Pablo Morales—whose dream became a lasting tradition.

Origins of the Caribbean Series

The Inter-American Series: The First Spark

The roots of the Caribbean Series trace back to October 18, 1946, when Jesús Corao, a passionate Venezuelan fan and businessman, launched the first Inter-American Series in Caracas. The competition featured notable teams such as the Sultanes de Monterrey (Mexico), All Cubans (Cuba), the Brooklyn Bushwicks (United States), and Cervecería de Caracas (Venezuela).

Although American teams dominated the early editions, the enthusiastic public response demonstrated that international baseball tournaments had strong potential in the region. This success planted the seed for a more ambitious and permanent event.

Venezuelan Visionaries: Prieto and Morales

Venezuelan businessmen Óscar “El Negro” Prieto and Pablo Morales—owners of Cervecería Caracas since 1952, later known as the Leones del Caracas—recognized the importance of the Inter-American Series and envisioned a more structured, official competition.

In 1948, during a convention of the Caribbean Baseball Confederation held in Miami, they presented their proposal for what would become the Caribbean Series. At that time, the Confederation consisted of Cuba, Puerto Rico, Panama, and Venezuela. Interestingly, the Dominican Republic—today the dominant power in Caribbean baseball—was not yet part of this first phase.

Formal Creation and Early Evolution

The 1949 Agreement in Havana

On August 21, 1949, in Havana, the agreement to create the Caribbean Series was finalized. The structure established a tournament featuring the champion teams from the four member nations. The format consisted of six days of competition, with two games played each day every February.

The inaugural edition took place at the Grand Stadium of Havana, also known as “Estadio del Cerro,” and later editions were held at the Sixto Escobar Stadium in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Dominance of Cuba in the Early Years

During the initial era of the Caribbean Series—from 1949 to 1960—Cuba emerged as the undisputed powerhouse. Cuban teams won seven of the twelve tournaments. Puerto Rico followed with four championships, while Panama captured one. Venezuela, despite its competitive spirit, remained without a title during this first phase.

A Legacy That Transcends Borders

The Caribbean Series Today

Since its creation, the Caribbean Series has grown into one of the most iconic celebrations of regional baseball. It has become a symbol of unity, competition, and national pride across the Caribbean.

The bold vision of Venezuelan pioneers Óscar “El Negro” Prieto and Pablo Morales continues to endure. Their initiative shaped a tournament that brings nations together through their shared love for baseball, transcending borders and generations.

The Caribbean Series is far more than a championship. It is a cultural legacy—one carried in every pitch, every swing, and every inning—that reflects the rich history and competitive spirit of Caribbean baseball.