Latin America is one of the beating hearts of world baseball, with professional leagues in several countries. Most play in winter, between October and January, when the MLB season is over.
The main circuits
The heavyweights are the LVBP in Venezuela, LIDOM in the Dominican Republic, the LMP (Mexican Pacific League) and Puerto Rico’s league. Each crowns a champion that then represents its country. Mexico also has the LMB, a summer league affiliated with the minors.
One shared trophy
The champions of Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Puerto Rico and other nations meet every February in the Caribbean Series, the region’s biggest tournament. These leagues have produced hundreds of big leaguers: more than 28% of MLB players are Latino, and most got their start on these fields.
FAQ
When do they play?
Most run in winter, from October to January, unlike MLB’s summer season.
How do they connect to each other?
Their champions face off in the Caribbean Series each February.

