Cuba blanks Puerto Rico, secures Super Round ticket

The Cuban national baseball team remains undefeated in the Dominican Republic, clinching a mathematically secured spot in the Super Round of the Caribbean Series with a decisive 4-0 victory over Puerto Rico. The win showcased a more solid and complete performance from the Cuban squad, building on their previous triumph against Curaçao.

The game remained a pitcher's duel until the second inning when slugger Yasiel González broke the scoreless tie with a solo home run to left field. Cuba extended their lead in the fourth inning, capitalizing on a walk and two hits, including an RBI single from catcher Andrys Pérez, which led to the removal of Puerto Rican starter Luis Cruz.

The final blow came in the seventh inning as first baseman Yoel Yanqui hit a two-run double off reliever Miguel Mejía, extinguishing any hopes of a Puerto Rican comeback. On the mound, Cuban starter Raymond Figueredo delivered a strong performance, allowing just two hits and striking out three over four innings. Reliever Frank Herrera, despite facing a bases-loaded situation in the fifth, showcased composure by striking out two consecutive batters to escape the jam.

With their Super Round ticket punched, Cuba is set to face host nation the Dominican Republic in the preliminary phase finale. Manager Germán Mesa confirmed that right-handed pitcher Randy Cueto will start, aiming to extend the team's winning streak. Puerto Rico, meanwhile, will look to rebound in their upcoming match against Curaçao.