Cubs sweep Tigers and still aspire to second place

The Holguin Cubs defeated the Ciego de Avila Tigers 5-1 this Thursday. Reaching 46 victories in the 64th National Baseball Series and continuing their fight for second place in the qualifying phase.

The Holguin team, managed by Lugdis Pineda, caught up with the Matanzas Crocodiles in the overall standings. Although they are behind in winning percentage. So reignited the battle for the second direct berth to the Elite League. As the Las Tunas Lumberjacks secured that spot the previous day.

Playing as visitors at José Ramón Cepero Stadium, the Holguin team relied on the arm of Carlos Alberto Santiesteban (7-3). Who allowed only one run over six innings to record his seventh win of the season.

Cristian Arévalo hit a double in the fourth inning to tie the game, and an inning later. Thanks to an error by the opposing defense, the game-winning run was scored.

In the fifth inning, Lázaro Cedeño launched a rocket off a pitch from the losing starter. Javier Griñán (2-7), driving in his 73rd run of the tournament. Solidifying his lead and extending his team’s advantage.

In the other game of the day, played at Nelson Fernández Stadium in San José de Las Lajas, the Gallos de Sancti Spiritus won 2-0 on the field against the Huracanes de Mayabeque. But the victory was forfeited due to the use of an ineligible player.

So far, seven teams have qualified for the postseason: the defending champion Las Tunas, Matanzas, Holguin, Mayabeque, Industriales, Artemisa, and Sancti Spiritus. Only one spot remains.

The National Baseball Commission announced the rescheduling of pending preliminary round games. Taking into account the current situation and prioritizing teams with a chance to qualify for the playoffs or finish in the top two of the standings.

As a result, the following games will be played this Friday: Pinar del Rio vs. Industriales. Cienfuegos vs. Matanzas, and Granma vs. Santiago de Cuba.

Furthermore, on Saturday the 27th and Sunday the 28th, the Pinar del Rio vs. Industriales and Cienfuegos vs. Matanzas games will be repeated. Ciego de Avila will face Villa Clara. Always at the home stadiums of the first two teams. Should there be any issues with securing the scheduled venues. Also the games would be moved to the visiting teams’ home territory.

Noire Aguilera Montaña
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