Havana.— The reigning champions, Leñadores de Las Tunas, defeated Azucareros de Villa Clara 9-7 today, securing the fourth and final spot for the semifinal phase of the 64th Cuban National Baseball Series.
In a game marked by five errors, held at Julio Antonio Mella Stadium, the Tunero team delivered a powerful blow to their rivals in the first inning, scoring six runs with five hits, including a home run by Yassel Izaguirre, who drove in three runs off the starter Osdany Rodríguez.
However, the Azucareros, who had taken an early lead in that first inning (2-0) with a two-run homer by Cristian Moré with a teammate on base, began to chip away and managed to tie the game in the seventh inning (7-7).
Then, the pupils of coach Abeicy Pantoja broke the tie in the eighth inning with two runs against reliever Omar David Pérez, runs the opposition could not overcome.
They recorded three hits, including a double by Yunieski Larduet that drove in the eighth run.
This was the second victory for closer Alberto Pablo Civil, who pitched 2.0 innings without allowing a hit or run and issued only one walk.
Coach Pantoja’s "tear-stained cloth" was not seen sending a pitch over the middle of the plate. Lots of sliders outside and fastballs tight to the body were his weapons. Truly untouchable.
Thus, the Leñadores, champions of the last two editions of the national pastime, continue refusing to relinquish their crown. And after two consecutive losses against the gritty Villa Clara team, they have made it clear they will defend it come hell or high water.
Following this result, the semifinals will begin next Sunday with the first matchup between Matanzas and Industriales at Victoria de Girón Stadium, and the following day Las Tunas will host Artemisa.
In addition, Las Tunas, Matanzas, Holguín, Industriales, Artemisa, and Mayabeque will be the six teams competing in the upcoming 4th Elite League of Cuban Baseball.
