APUNTE.COM.DO – SANTO DOMINGO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – With the conclusion of the 2024-2025 season, the Gigantes del Cibao are in search of a new general manager and a new manager for the 2025-2026 campaign. Luis "Pipe" Urueta, who served as the team’s general manager, will not continue in his position.
Meanwhile, Wellington Cepeda, who acted as the team’s manager, has been hired as bullpen coach for the Arizona Diamondbacks for the 2025 MLB season and announced he would not return to his role with the Gigantes.
In this context, Ángel Ovalles, former general manager of the Águilas Cibaeñas, has emerged as a strong candidate for the vacant general manager position with the Gigantes. Ovalles, who recently stepped down after five years with the Águilas, is widely recognized for his leadership, including securing a national championship and a Caribbean Series title during his tenure.
A Possible Tandem: Ovalles and Molina
If Ovalles is hired by the Gigantes, he may look to bring along Yadier Molina, who managed the Águilas during the 2024-2025 season but has not been confirmed to continue in that role for 2025-2026. Molina took on the managerial role during a challenging period for the team and managed to lead them to the Round Robin, although they failed to reach the Final Series.
The relationship between general managers and managers in the Dominican Professional Baseball League (LIDOM) is critical, as general managers typically prefer to work with individuals they trust. Should Ovalles join the Gigantes, it would not be surprising if he considered Molina as an option for the managerial position with the San Francisco de Macorís team.
Statements from the Gigantes' Leadership
Alfredo Acebal, president of the Gigantes, was asked about potential candidates for both positions. His response was measured: “Everyone is a candidate.” Nevertheless, Ovalles’ recent achievements and experience make him a strong contender to take the reins of the team.
Challenges for the 2025-2026 Season
The Gigantes del Cibao aim to adopt a new strategic approach after a disappointing season. With Ovalles’ potential arrival, the team could implement a management model that promotes stability and consistent results. Furthermore, having a figure like Yadier Molina in the dugout would enhance the team’s competitiveness, given his experience as both a player and a manager.
The Gigantes’ immediate future depends on the decisions made by their leadership in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the possibility of Ovalles and Molina becoming the new faces of the franchise raises expectations among fans and within the Dominican baseball community.
