In Havana Jose Contreras was met with a huge welcome 10 years after his high profile defection for the United States and massive, lucrative success in the big leagues.
Contreras is the first athlete, according to the Associated Press, to take advantage of the new migratory law that allows state deemed "traitors" to visit their home.
Contreras was met with a "hero's welcome" in Pinar del Rio.
Contreras abandoned Cuba for Mexico in 2002 and was signed by the Yankees a year later.
Cuba's new legislation renews hope that many such "defectors" who sought opportunity to better their own and their families lives may be able to reunite.
Guillermo Rigondeaux left behind a wife and two children in Havana. During my interview with them in one of the most politically radioactive homes in Cuba, his wife and son stressed how dearly they awaited seeing the father and husband.
Hopefully these new measures in Cuba take that dream, along with countless other ruptured families, one step closer to being a reality.
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