Santurce Celebrates Baseball Legends with New Honors

Earlier this month, the Roberto Clemente Professional Baseball League (‘La Pro’) announced a series of significant changes for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Carlos Beltrán’s number 15 will be permanently retired, marking a new chapter for the league.

During a press conference in Guaynabo, La Pro President Juan A. Flores Galarza revealed that the number 15 will be retired to honor Beltrán’s illustrious career. This move solidifies his place among the league’s elite, joining other legends like Roberto Clemente and Roberto Alomar. The official ceremony will take place on November 4, prior to the opening game at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in Hato Rey.

The season will also be dedicated to Cándido ‘Candy’ Maldonado, who was named Rookie of the Year in 1978 and won a World Series championship with the Toronto Blue Jays in 1992. The dedication will celebrate his contributions to Puerto Rican baseball and will occur during the same opening ceremony.

Additionally, the league will honor Juan Francisco Puello Herrera, the commissioner of the Caribbean Professional Baseball Confederation, with a special recognition during the opening day. Puello Herrera, who has served for 34 years, will retire following the 2027 season.

For local expats and digital nomads in Santurce, these changes reflect the ongoing importance of baseball in the community. If you're attending the opening day game, keep an eye out for the special tributes. The retirement of Beltrán’s number 15 and the dedication to Maldonado are a nod to the rich history of the sport in Puerto Rico.