Mexico Undefeated in the Caribbean Series

By Francisco Romero

Mexico has taken over the Dominican Republic in the 2016 Caribbean Series, as it is undefeated with a record of 3-0 after defeating Venezuela 6-4 on Wednesday.

Mexico opened the Series beating the favorite and host Dominican Republic 3-2 on Monday and on Tuesday defeated the representative of Cuba 9-3.

On Wednesday Mexico and Venezuela entered the game undefeated with a record of 2-0.

Mexico has an off day on Thursday and will face Puerto Rico on Friday.

Venezuela beat Puerto Rico 2-1 on Monday and defeated Dominican Republic 8-7 on Tuesday.

Mexico, who is represented by the Venados de Mazatlan, of the Mexican Pacific League, had a tough game against Venezuela, as it needed eight pitchers to get the victory.

Yuniesky Betancourt finished the game with 2 RBIs for Mexico.

Mexico’s offense woke up in the fourth inning; Alex Liddi tripled, Cyle Hankerd flied out then Jorge Vasquez was hit by a pitch and got on base.

With men on first and third Betancourt hit a double bringing home Liddi and Vazquez. Later in the same inning Betancourt scored on a Single by Erick Rodriguez.

Alejandro Soto got the win for Mexico after pitching 5.2 innings; he allowed 6 hits and 2 runs.

Omar Bencomo got the loss; he pitched 3.2 innings.

With the win over Venezuela, Mexico has a spot in the semifinals.

The other game on Wednesday featured Cuba vs. Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rican bats came alive as they defeated the Cuban team 12-1.

Cuba is still in the process of becoming a full time member of the Caribbean Confederation; once their affiliation is approved they would have to host a Caribbean Series.

Next year the Caribbean Series will take place in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, then a new rotation will start in 2018.