04/09/2023 1 Minute Read

Puerto Rico land third win with 1-0 defeat of Mexico

Right-hander Angel Cruz went the distance, allowing only three hits. Puerto Rico now eyeing the Super Round.

World No. 13 Puerto Rico beat No. 3 Mexico 1-0 to stay undefeated in the XXXI WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup. Right-hander Angel Cruz went the distance and right-fielder Yeriel Pastrana batted in the only run.

Puerto Rico had Jan Reyes at second with two outs in the top of the third. The centre fielder got in scoring position stealing third. Right fielder Yeriel Pastrana got the fourth pitch by Mexico starter Juan Pablo Tirado, turning it into an RBI singled to right field.

It was all the run support that Angel Cruz needed. He pitched seven innings, striking out six and allowing three hits and no walks.

Puerto Rico had a scoring chance in the fourth. They loaded the bases, but Mexico’s relievers, Jonathan Miranda and Jose Meza, got out of the jam.

Puerto Rico starter Angel Cruz shut out Mexico and delivered a complete game.

XXXI WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup-Day 5 PUR v MEX

Puerto Rico are now at 3-0, tying Chinese Taipei at the top in Group A. Chinese Taipei and Puerto Rico will face each other on Tuesday, 5 September, at 18.30 local time, while Mexico will face Korea at 10.30.