The Tampa Bay Rays made history Tuesday in becoming the first Major League Baseball team to play in Cuba since 1999, defeating the Cuban national team 4-1.
The historic afternoon took place in front of Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro, and while the event was good and fun for many who participated, the ending was particularly rough for the Rays.
Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reported that the team had a long delay in leaving the island, as mechanical issues sidelined the team’s plane.
#Rays had delays leaving Cuba, including mechanical issues with plane, didn't land in Tampa until 5 am.
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) March 23, 2016
Rays pitcher Chris Archer tweeted at nearly 3 a.m. that the team had been stuck on the runway going on six hours:
Great trip to Cuba. But….we haven't left yet. We've been stuck on the runway for the past 6 hours. Safe to say we are a bit delusional
— Chris Archer (@ChrisArcher22) March 23, 2016
Archer provided some updates, and also noted that the shower at Estadio Latinoamericano was not working, so there were a bunch of players that smelled less than great.
"I'm thankful.. For lays potatoes chips" (only thing we have to eat)- Brad Miller
— Chris Archer (@ChrisArcher22) March 23, 2016
"Our sleep debt is irreversible"- Richie Shafer
— Chris Archer (@ChrisArcher22) March 23, 2016
Ps. The shower at the stadium in Cuba today wasn't working after the game. So many guys have not showered….🙊
— Chris Archer (@ChrisArcher22) March 23, 2016
The team finally made it back in the U.S. at 5 a.m., seven hours for a one hour trip. Certainly that’s not the way any of them envisioning it ending, but at least they made it home safe.
