Local Players Represent Arizona Diamondbacks RBI Team

Yuma, Arizona – For the second consecutive year, five baseball players from Yuma have been chosen to play for the Arizona Diamondbacks RBI team. This summer travel team gathers top high school talent from across the state.

Players Julio Reina from Cofa, San Luis’s Cesar Chavila, Juan Pablo Chavez, and Carlos Gonzalez have all delivered impressive performances during an eight-game series featuring players from Yuma County. Eli Lujan from Yuma High also made the roster.

James Kuzniak, the head coach from Gillarridge, is leading the team this year.

“I’m really proud of each of them,” Kuzniak remarked. “It’s nice to get to know them not just as athletes but as individuals. During the high school season, things can get really competitive.”

The Diamondbacks RBI, which stands for Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities, is part of a Major League Baseball initiative aimed at providing opportunities for underserved youth. The teams participate in prominent tournaments throughout the Southwest, offering players exposure to college recruiters and professional scouts.

Eli Lujan, a Yuma High alumnus, referred to his travel baseball experience as a chance to wrap up his time in travel before heading to Big Bend Community College in Washington for college baseball.

“This is fantastic,” Lujan expressed. “It’ll be my last travel team before college, and I’m thrilled to be with such a great group. Yuma, Tucson—it’s all just a wonderful experience. I really can’t wait.”

The team has a summer schedule ahead, and for these five Yuma representatives, it’s a chance to showcase their talents while proudly wearing the Diamondbacks jerseys.