President Barack Obama’s trip to Cuba this week already has quite a bit of historical significance, but today, the MLB’s Tampa Bay Rays took on the Cuban National Team in Havana, defeating them 4-1 in the exhibition game. Obama and Cuban president Raul Castro sat side by side behind home plate to watch the game along with the thousands that were in attendance at the crowded park.
Upon his arrival at the park, President Obama was greeted by former MLB all-stars Derek Jeter and Dave Winfield, as well as league Commissioner Rob Manfred. Secretary of State John Kerry was also in the VIP box alongside several high ranking Cuban officials.
Prior to the start of the game, Rays players left the dugout to greet President Obama, as well as gifting flowers and small Cuban flags to First Lady Michelle Obama and daughter Sasha. The trip and the game is a major step forward for two countries that have had strong animosity for over 50 years. The game itself marks the first time an American team has stepped foot on Cuban soil since the 1999 Baltimore Orioles held their spring training on the communist island.
