THE Chunichi Dragons would like to maintain their accord with Cuban baseball, affirmed Masahiro Yokoyama, executive director of this team from the Japanese professional league.

"In Japan, there is top-quality training for pitchers, our team would like to receive two Cubans between the age of 18 and 22 to help contribute to baseball in Cuba," said Yokoyama to Granma International.

The official explained that "Cuban pitchers have strong arms, we would like to train them using our system." He added that the exchange between Cuba and the Dragons is due to be renewed in 2005, not just with players but also with trainers, training camps and friendly matches.

Yokoyama visited the island for three days, had talks with the sports authorities and presented a donation of $100,000 for baseball equipment in schools.

Carlos Rodríguez, president of the Cuban Baseball Federation, presented Yokoyama with a giant baseball made in Cuba and signed by President Fidel Castro who is a big fan of the sport.

The Chunichi Dragons have collaborated with Cuba since 2001 when they contracted star third baseman Omar Linares, the only Cuban to play in the Japanese professional league.

Yokoyama highlighted Linares’ work over three seasons: "He demonstrated the quality of Cuban baseball, although he had several injuries as a result of the artificial turf."

The Asian official stated that during the play offs of the Japanese professional series that ended recently, the 37-year-old player batted 17-7 for a 387 average, hit two homeruns and seven runs. The Dragons lost in seven games against the Seibu Lions.