The Villa Clara Leopards defeated the Camagüey Bulls 12-2 in eight innings by a knockout score at Augusto César Sandino Stadium in Santa Clara. Putting them three wins away from becoming the eighth and final team to qualify for the postseason of the 64th National Baseball Series.
As the rescheduled games of the qualifying phase continued, the Leopards collected eleven hits. Including a home run by Cristian Rodríguez, who went 2-for-3 with three RBIs, while their opponents managed nine hits. The win went to Raidel Alfonso (5-5). Who allowed seven hits and two runs in six innings, striking out four and walking one.
Now the Leopards, with a record of 36-35, are obligated to win their remaining three games to overtake the Vegueros of Pinar del Rio. Also who have a record of 40-35, for eighth place and thus secure the final postseason berth.
If they win their two remaining games against Camagüey, also at Sandino Stadium, they will face Ciego de Avila next Saturday17th, at José Ramón Cepero Stadium in Ciego de Avila.
In recent hours, the National Baseball Commission reinstated the best-of-seven playoff format. For all postseason rounds, with the familiar 2-3-2 structure. Always starting at the home stadium of the higher-ranked team from the preliminary round.
The postseason schedule stipulates that the quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals will begin on the third day after the last game of the previous round concludes. The quarterfinal matchups are set: Holguin Cubs vs. Artemisa Hunters. Matanzas Crocodiles vs. Sancti Spiritus Roosters; and Mayabeque Hurricanes vs. Industriales Lions.
Moreover the defending champions, Las Tunas Lumberjacks, who finished first in the qualifying round. Await their quarterfinal opponent, which could be Pinar del Rio or Villa Clara.
As preparation for the postseason, the Holguin Cubs will host the Las Tunas Lumberjacks. This Wednesday, January 14th, at Calixto García Stadium. The Holguin team is scheduled to return the visit to Las Tunas on Friday, January 16th, at Julio Antonio Mella Stadium.
- Leopards three wins away from the National Series postseason - 14 de January de 2026
- Seven-Game Playoff Reinstated for the Entire Postseason - 13 de January de 2026
- Cubs sweep Tigers and still aspire to second place - 26 de December de 2025