Licey dominates the Águilas in the first duel of the season
In an electrifying matchup held this Saturday at Cibao Stadium, the Tigres del Licey prevailed 6-2 over the Águilas Cibaeñas. The blue squad unleashed a powerful offense of 14 hits, supported by flawless work from their bullpen, marking their territory in the first clash between the eternal rivals of Dominican winter baseball.
The key to the blue triumph
The game was decided in the sixth inning, when reinforcement José Barrero hit a crucial double that broke the 2-2 tie. The lead was extended immediately after by an RBI triple from Gustavo Núñez, giving the visitors the necessary momentum to secure the victory.
The Licey bullpen was decisive by working four and a third innings without allowing runs, with just two hits, one walk, and three strikeouts.
Michael Arias took the win after an effective performance in the fifth inning. For his part, starter Vladimir Gutiérrez completed four and two-thirds innings, allowing three hits and two earned runs. The rest of the way was dominated by Luis Frías, Javy Guerra, Wander Suero, and Jean Carlos Mejía, who kept the Cibao offense at bay.
Match development
The Águilas tried to take control early thanks to a two-run home run by Jorge Bonifacio in the first inning. However, Licey responded in the third inning with a double by Ramón Hernández and tied the game in the fourth with an RBI single by Ángel Ortiz.
The final blow came in the ninth inning, where the Tigers added three additional runs. Highlights included an RBI double by Estevan Florial and a wild pitch that allowed Mel Rojas Jr. to score from third base, sealing the final score.
Offensive leaders
- Mel Rojas Jr.: 5-2, one run scored and one RBI.
- Estevan Florial: 4-2, with a double, one run scored and one RBI.
- José Barrero: 2-1, with a double, two runs scored and one RBI.
- Jorge Bonifacio (Águilas): 4-1, including his two-run home run.
Upcoming engagement
The rivalry continues this Sunday. The Tigres del Licey will host the Águilas Cibaeñas at the Estadio Quisqueya Juan Marichal starting at 5:00 in the afternoon, in what promises to be another high-voltage matchup.
