2026 SIGNING TRACKER: P Ernesto Punales

KITCHENER - The Kitchener Panthers are proud to announce the signing of pitcher Ernesto Punales.

Punales has plenty of indy ball experience, including in the Puerto Rico Independent Baseball League. Originally born in Cuba, Punales lives in the United States at the moment.

The former Baltimore Orioles farmhand was converted into a pitcher a few years ago, and has pitched in Puerto Rico and Mexico.

"I'm excited to add Ernesto to our pitching staff," said general manager Shanif Hirani.

"His experience and veteran presence will play a huge factor for our staff as a whole. Also, his ability to start or come out of the bullpen was something we value."

In a corresponding move to get to the import roster limit, pitcher Elian Serrata has been moved to the inactive list.

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ERNESTO PUNALES

• Bats/Pitches: R/R
• Hometown: Miami, FL (IMPORT)
• Birthdate: February 4, 1993
• Pronunciation: err-NEST-oh pu-NAL-iss