Myrtle Beach Pelicans arrive in the Grand Strand ahead of Opening Day

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - Opening Day for the Myrtle Beach Pelicans is around the corner.

The players arrived just two days before the season opener from Spring Training in Mesa, Arizona.

Media day featured a glimpse of some new and familiar faces who will be taking the field soon.

Many of the players have played in a Pelicans uniform before, for others, it was their first time in Myrtle Beach.

“I spent summers here as a family,” said Brooks Caple, Pelicans pitcher. “I have family in the Charlotte area, so we have been here a few times. I love the area.”

One major change fans will notice that happened in the offseason is that the Pelicans hired a new manager, Yovanny Cuevas.

This is his inaugural season as a manager, after being a player and hitting coach in the Cubs organization.

“I did not expect that because last year they talked to me about being a hitting coach again, then this year about it,” said Cuevas. “It was surprising. I am excited to see real baseball with all the fans, with fans coming in here every day, that will be fun.”

The Pelicans have a few guys who are Top 30 prospects in the Cubs organization.

Cole Mathis, who was drafted in the second round, 54th overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft from the College of Charleston, played rookie ball last year.

“This team has so much talent,” said Mathis. “Fans in the stands may not notice in the dugout night in and night out, but if you catch every game this season, you will see how special this team really is.”

Angel Cepeda, who is familiar with Cuevas’ style of coaching, signed with the Cubs in 2023.

“Cuevas was with me my first year in the Dominican Republic, and to have him as my manager is exciting,” said Cepeda.

WMBF News and the Myrtle Beach Pelicans are teaming up to air 15 games on local airwaves this season. You can find the full schedule here.

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