Heading to the Czech Republic: France’s U23 team dreams of another European triumph
The U23 European Baseball Championship is just around the corner, and the French team shows great promise. Held in the Czech Republic, between Brno and Třebíč, the young French players arrive with clear ambitions: to compete for the top spots.
What’s in their sights? A podium finish like in 2023, or even better. Third in the last edition, the Bleuets are determined to climb even higher in European baseball. To achieve this, head coach Keino Perez has assembled a promising squad, blending power, experience, and youth.
A perfect timing, a sharp team
Just before many young French players head to the United States—where they’ll join their universities in mid-August—and ahead of the Division 1 French championship semifinals, this tournament is a great opportunity to make an impression.
The French lineup stands out for the quality of its players: performers in the French JFL championship and others excelling on international fields, like Miguel Lopez or Mathis Meurant. Plenty of reasons to be optimistic.
A competitive but beatable group
France will compete in Pool B alongside three distinct opponents. Their first match is Tuesday at 7:30 PM against the Czech hosts, serious title contenders. The next day at 10 AM, they face Israel, followed by England on Thursday at 10 AM to close the pool stage. The goal is clear: secure at least second place, which means qualifying for the semifinals on Friday. The final is scheduled for Saturday, August 9, at 7:30 PM.
A solid mound, a serious offense
On the pitching side, the JFL rules applied in the French Division 1 allow us to closely follow the progress of our pitchers. And the signs are good. Ben Couvreur, Thibaut Mercadier, Nathan Laot, or Axel Laval have delivered strong performances, promising a robust rotation. Notably, Kenny Esposito is back from injury: a significant boost if he quickly regains his form.
At the plate, batting averages above .300 for Bouniol or Brainville, home runs from Pierre or Briones… The French at-bats could sparkle.
A very real French hope
Held every two years, this championship has often favored ambitious nations. In 2023, the Bleuets won a magnificent bronze medal behind England and the Netherlands. This year, the team seems ready to aim just as high.
The path is set, the ambitions are there. Now it’s up to the young French players to shine, to dream, and above all, to make the blue colors shine in the heart of Eastern Europe. Come on, France!
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