Mexico bids farewell to the Caribbean Series with a victory over Nicaragua
MIAMI — The Naranjeros de Hermosillo of Mexico sealed their participation in the 2024 Caribbean Series with a 5-2 victory over the Gigantes de Rivas of Nicaragua on Tuesday. Despite both teams being eliminated from the semifinals, they put on a competitive display in their final group stage match.
Mexico took an early lead with Aaron Altherr hitting a two-run homer in the first inning. They then secured their victory with a three-run attack in the third inning, thanks to RBI singles by Agustín Murillo, Juan Carlos Gamboa, and Sergio Burrell.
Pitcher Manny Barreda put on a solid performance, allowing only three hits and one run in his five-inning start. This secured the win for the Naranjeros de Hermosillo, who finished their participation in the tournament with a 2-4 record.
Despite being out of contention for the semifinals, Mexico’s leader, Juan Gabriel Castro, emphasized the team’s commitment to ending the Caribbean Series on a high note. “Every game is played to win, even though we were eliminated, as professionals we had a commitment and we went out to conclude the Caribbean Series as it should be done,” he commented.
On the other hand, Nicaragua has struggled in the tournament, losing all five games they have played. Their veteran player, Carlos Teller, expressed disappointment in their performance but emphasized the importance of participating in such events to elevate the level of Nicaraguan baseball. “We have not been able to win, but we have one game left and we will try to say goodbye with a victory,” Teller stated after the defeat.
Despite their differing outcomes in the series, both teams have highlighted the learning experience and the importance of continued participation in international events to develop and elevate the level of baseball in their respective countries. Nicaragua will play their final game against Venezuela, aiming to secure a win before bidding farewell to the Caribbean Series.