Esteban Gallardo’s key hit powers Mexico's 3-2 win over Panama

Esteban Gallardo hit a single to left field that put World No. 3 Mexico ahead of No. 14 Panama in the bottom of the sixth, 3-2, in their first Placement Round game at the VII WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup.

At the bottom of the first, Mexico took the lead, 1-0, and Panama tied the game, 1-1, with a run by Algis Palacio in the top of the second.

Mexico retook the lead with Angel Donce’s run in the bottom of the second. Panama’s starter Isaac Achurra got out of a bases-loaded jam with a strikeout and a 6-3 ground-out, ending the inning with Mexico leading 2-1.

Although Panama did not harvest in the third, their defence performed well, delivering an inning-ending double play that prevented Mexico from extending the lead.

In the top of the fifth, Panama tied the game again with Roger Vasquez’s run.

The bases were loaded after Mexico’s Carlos Durstewitz got hit by a pitch for the second time in this game. Gallardo’s walk-off hit made it 3-2 and ended the game.

Mexico starter Santiago Garcia earned the win, pitching six innings. He struck out five, allowing five hits and two walks.

After the win, Mexico now have a 3-0 record and are on top of the Placement Round, while Panama trail with a 2-1 record.