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The Cuban national team defeated Colombia 7-4 this Sunday, securing their second victory in the VI World Baseball Classic, resulting in them remaining undefeated and solidifying their position in Group A, which is being contested at the Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The match started with an advantage for the Colombians, who took advantage of the Cuban opener Denny Larrondo's lack of control, as he issued three walks in the first inning.
However, the Cuban response came quickly. The third batter Ariel Martínez hit a home run with two runners on base, shortly followed by Erisbel Arruebarrena, who also sent one out of the park to drive in four runs and turn the scoreboard around.
Larrondo pitched two innings without allowing any hits, while Yariel Rodríguez, pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, threw two solid innings with three strikeouts.
In the sixth inning, Cuba increased the lead with three runs, two of them driven in by a triple from Miami Marlins prospect Yiddi Cappé, also taking advantage of a defensive error by the Colombian team.
However, Colombia responded in the seventh inning and managed to score two runs, but the Cuban bullpen was able to contain the threat. Luis Romero, Yoan López, and Raidel Martínez took charge of closing the game from the bullpen.
The Cuban pitching staff gave up 10 walks during the game, but managed to maintain the lead at crucial moments.
Situation of Group A
With this result, Cuba and Puerto Rico lead Group A with a record of 2-0, while Canada stands at 1-0, Panama has 0-2, and Colombia is eliminated with 0-3.
The team led by Germán Mesa thus maintains its ambition to advance to the next round of the tournament.
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