Havana Sugar Kings
From BR Bullpen
- Location: Havana, Cuba
- League: International League 1954-1960
- Affiliation: Cincinnati Reds 1955-1960
- Ballpark:
The Havana Sugar Kings made the International League truly international in 1954 when they represented the third nation in the IL (Cuba joining Canada and the USA). In '55, the Sugar Kings affiliated with the Cincinnati Reds, a relationship that lasted until 1960 when nationalization of American industries led the IL to move the franchise to New Jersey where they became the Jersey City Jerseys. The brightest moment in the history of the Sugar Kings was '59, when they won the Junior World Series in one of the most eventful years in Cuban history. Among the more famous players on that team were hurlers Luis Arroyo and Mike Cuellar; Cuellar spent his first three pro seasons with the Sugar Kings and led the IL in ERA in '57. Playing close to sea level led to low offensive statistics and impressive pitching stats for Havana.
[edit] Year-by-Year Record
| Year | Record | Finish | Manager | Playoffs | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1954 | 78-77 | 5th | Reggie Otero | ||
| 1955 | 87-66 | 3rd | Reggie Otero | Lost in 1st round | |
| 1956 | 72-82 | 6th | Reggie Otero / Napoleon Reyes | ||
| 1957 | 72-82 | 6th | Napoleon Reyes | ||
| 1958 | 65-88 | 8th | Napoleon Reyes / Tony Pacheco | ||
| 1959 | 80-73 | 3rd | Preston Gomez | League Champs | |
| 1960 | 76-77 overall | -- | Tony Castano | Team moved to Jersey City July 13 |
