The Cuban baseball team started their Premier 12 tournament with a disappointing defeat, losing 1-6 to the Dominican Republic this Wednesday at Tianmu Stadium in Taipei, China. Despite taking an early lead in the sixth inning, the strong performance by starting pitcher Yoenni Yera from Matanzas wasn't enough to secure a win and make a grand entrance into the competition.
Yera delivered an impressive six-inning performance, allowing only three hits, striking out five, and giving up no walks. "The opponent analysis worked well. I focused on each batter, and the outcome was positive," Yera told JIT, emphasizing his control and strategy.
However, the bullpen failed to hold onto the narrow lead. Reliever Leodán Reyes issued two consecutive walks in the seventh inning, followed by a single from Erismendy Alcántara. An error by center fielder Yoelkis Guibert on Alcántara's hit allowed the Dominicans to score their first two runs.
Pitchers Frank Abel Álvarez and Yankiel Mauri also struggled on the mound, conceding one and three runs respectively, solidifying the Dominican victory.
Challenges in the Offensive Lineup
Manager Armando Johnson highlighted the team's offensive struggles: "Our offense was lacking, and we failed to hit at crucial moments." Indeed, Cuba managed only six hits and couldn't capitalize on opportunities with runners on base.
In what will be a crucial match for the Cubans' future in the tournament, the island will face South Korea this Thursday, one of the favorites in Group B. Left-handed pitcher Liván Moinelo has been assigned to secure the much-needed victory.