Yoelvis Fiss Ciego de Avila Through My Lens

Yoelvis Fiss announced that the 60th Cuban National Series would be his last, closing twenty-one years in the Ciego de Ávila outfield. These are my photographs of Yoelvis Fiss.

Yoelvis Fiss Ciego de Avila Tigres centerfielder has announced that the 60th Cuban National Series was his last. The longtime middle outfielder for the Ciego steps away after 21 National Series. He debuted in 2000 at the age of 20 and sports a lifetime .291 batting average. Fiss also provided some punch as he eclipsed double digit home runs in 10 of his first 11 seasons.

Yoelvis Fiss with Ciego de Avila Tigres
Yoelvis Fiss with Ciego de Avila Tigres via Phil Selig
Yoelvis Fiss with Ciego de Avila Tigres
Yoelvis Fiss with Ciego de Avila Tigres via Phil Selig
Yoelvis Fiss with Ciego de Avila Tigres
Yoelvis Fiss with Ciego de Avila Tigres via Phil Selig

His peak season came in 2007-2008 when he hit .350 with 22 home runs and 64 RBI and stole 14 bases as well. Yoelvis was a key piece of the Tigres championship squads in 2012, 2015 & 2016. The veteran was held in high enough regard that all world talent Luis Robert a natural centerfielder was moved to left. Fiss was regarded as a solid contact bat with above average power at a key defensive position in centerfield.

It is doubtful whether Fiss was ever considered an MLB prospect. He none the less represents a player we are less likely to see moving forward. With the attrition of talent on the island I predict we will see fewer players spend their entire 20 year career in the National Series. The retirements of Fiss, Stayler Hernández and Yoandry Urgellés represent yet another stage in the Cuban leagues transition.

A player in a red Cuba jersey leans on the dugout rail holding a water bottle, looking out across the field.
Photograph: Phil Selig

Phil Selig

Canada’s Top Expert on Cuban Baseball. I first ventured to the island in 2012 with camera in hand and captured some of the future baseball stars of the world. I have returned many times immersing myself in the game and culture. Get inside the Dugout for a unique look at Cuban Baseball.