On a starry night at the Quisqueya Juan Marichal Stadium, the Águilas Cibaeñas defeated the Leones del Escogido 4-1, ending their undefeated streak in the 2025-2026 semifinal series of the Dominican Baseball League.
The opener Óscar De la Cruz was the star pitcher of the game, dominating the opposing offense with six scoreless innings. During his performance, he only allowed two hits, gave up one walk and struck out four batters, maintaining a no-hitter until the fifth inning. De la Cruz demonstrated exceptional control, facing only 20 rivals, two more than the possible minimum.
Aggressive Offense from the Start
The Eagles’ offense made itself felt early, scoring three runs in the first inning. Leody Taveras started the inning with a walk, stole second base and scored thanks to a single by Ezequiel Durán. Aderlín Rodríguez also hit a single, and an error by the right fielder allowed Jonathan Clase to drive in the third run, knocking starting pitcher José Urquidy out of the game.
In the third episode, Cristhian Adames received a walk, stole second, and scored on a single by Aderlín Rodríguez, extending the lead to 4-0.
The Lions Respond
The Lions managed to avoid the shutout in the eighth inning, when José Marmolejos hit a double and scored thanks to a single by Franchy Cordero, leaving the final score at 4-1.
Results and Statistics
With this victory, the Eagles improved their record to 3-3, achieving their second consecutive win and getting closer to second place in the Round Robin, currently held by the Toros del Este (3-2). Despite the loss, the Lions remain at the top with a record of 5-1.
Óscar De la Cruz (1-0) got the victory, José Urquidy (0-1) took the loss, and Burch Smith obtained the save.
Featured Relay
Following De la Cruz’s departure, Jonathan Hernández pitched a scoreless inning in the seventh. Carlos Belén allowed a run in the eighth, being relieved by Andrew Pérez, who quelled a threat with bases loaded and one out. Burch Smith closed the game in the ninth, securing the victory.
Offensive Analysis
Aderlín Rodríguez led the Águilas’ offense by batting 5-4, with one RBI and one run scored. Ezequiel Durán and Jonathan Clase contributed with one RBI each. Cristhian Adames, Leody Taveras, and Steward Berroa each hit one hit.
For the Leones, Raimel Tapia went 3-for-4, José Marmolejos hit a double, Franchy Cordero drove in a run, and Jorge Mateo hit a single.
Productive Return and Solid Defense
Upon his return with the Eagles, Geraldo Perdomo connected for two hits in four at-bats, showing his immediate impact. Cristhian Adames shone at third base with outstanding defensive plays.
Next Meeting
The Águilas Cibaeñas will receive the Leones del Escogido again at the Cibao Stadium on Sunday.
