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The Cocodrilos de Matanzas took a strong start in the grand final of the 64th National Baseball Series, defeating the defending champions Leñadores de Las Tunas by a score of 8 to 3 this Wednesday in the first game held at the Estadio Latinoamericano.
In a neutral venue due to the severe energy crisis prevailing on the island, the team led by Armando Ferrer was quick and decisive from the start, taking advantage of both their offensive effectiveness and the defensive cracks of their opponent, who left 12 runners on base, a determining factor in the outcome, according to the site JIT.
Decisive rally in the third inning
The game was practically decided in the third inning when Matanzas put together an unattainable rally of five runs, thanks to five hits—four of them against the left-handed starter Eliander Bravo—and a solo home run by Aníbal Medina off reliever Andier Reyes.
In that rally, the receiver Andrys Pérez, one of the players chosen to represent the country in the upcoming World Classic of the discipline, was pivotal in driving in three teammates, solidifying the early lead for the yumurinos.
Matanzas connected a total of 13 hits, although they also displayed some offensive inefficiency, leaving 10 runners on base.
Yoennis Yera, postseason legend
With the lead in the score, Ferrer entrusted the start to the left-handed pitcher Yoennis Yera, who dominated the powerful lineup from Tunera for five innings, allowing only three hits.
Yera achieved his seventh victory of the season and became the left-handed pitcher with the most wins in postseason phases, with 13, setting a historic record.
Additionally, the defeat marked the first loss for Las Tunas in a championship finals opening game in the history of the playoffs.
"I took Yera out in the fifth inning because we need to preserve him. This Thursday, Shaiel Cruz will take the mound," Ferrer explained in the mentioned official outlet.
For his part, Yera himself emphasized the importance of the collective victory: "I am pleased to become the left-handed player with the most postseason wins, but the most important thing is the team's victory," he stated.
Las Tunas seeks answers
The tunero manager Abeicy Pantoja acknowledged that he has not yet determined the starter for the second game, although he did not rule out right-hander Yosmel Garcés, one of the team's most consistent pitchers during the regular season and the playoffs.
The second match of the final will be held this Thursday, with Matanzas attempting to extend their lead and Las Tunas looking to tie the series. Both teams defeated Industriales and Artemisa in the semifinals, respectively.
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