Zapopan, Jalisco. Dominican Junior Lake emerged as the star figure in the victory of the Leones del Escogido over the Charros de Jalisco, in the framework of the 2026 Caribbean Series. Lake drove in three runs, hit four hits and made a crucial out at the plate, frustrating the possibility of a tie for the Mexican team in the seventh inning. The final score was 5-4 in favor of the Dominicans.
Dominican Republic Wins Against Mexico in the Caribbean Series
The opening game of the 68th Caribbean Series 2026 saw the Leones del Escogido from the Dominican Republic overcome the Charros de Jalisco from Mexico with a score of 5-4. The match, full of emotions, was highlighted by the performance of Junior Lake and the offense of both teams.By Mexico, Mateo Gil, despite only connecting one hit, drove in three runs. Michael Wielansky had an outstanding offensive performance, with four hits in five at-bats.The game was defined with a run in the first inning for Mexico, two in the fifth, and one more in the seventh. Dominican Republic responded with three runs in the third episode and two in the fifth.Kenny Hernández took the win as a reliever for the Dominican Republic, while Manny Bañuelos took the loss. Jimmy Cordero secured the save.Dominican opener Oscar de la Cruz worked 4.2 innings, allowing three earned runs and striking out five batters. The Dominican bullpen included Kenny Hernández, Luis Frías, Alex Colomé, Emailin Montilla, Jefry Yan, and Jimmy Cordero.From Mexico’s side, Manny Bañuelos pitched 4.1 innings, allowing five earned runs. The Mexican relief was in charge of Mario Meza, Luis Márquez, Jesús Cruz, Miguel Aguilar and Matt Foster.
Key Moments of the Match
The Charros de Jalisco opened the scoring in the first inning with a run driven in by Mateo Gil. The Dominican Republic responded in the third inning with three runs driven in by a double from Junior Lake.In the fifth inning, the Dominicans extended their lead, while Mexico narrowed the gap with a double by Mateo Gil. In the seventh, the home team threatened, but only scored one run, thanks to Junior Lake’s timely out.
Other Results of the Day
In the first game of the day, the Cangrejeros de Santurce defeated Mexico Verde with a score of 5-4, with two runs batted in by Rubén Castro in the ninth inning.The victory went to Gabriel Rodríguez, while Anthony Gose suffered the defeat. Yohandy Morales hit a home run for Puerto Rico.
Next Match
The next day of the Caribbean Series promises emotions with the Caribbean classic between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, starting at 2:00 in the afternoon.At 7:00 PM, the champion of the Mexican Pacific League ARCO Mexico Rojo will face Panama.
