14/09/2023 1 Minute Read

Puerto Rico's four at-bats enough to beat Cuba

Five runs in the bottom of the first set the tone. The game ended after the top of the fifth due to the run-difference rule.

World No. 9 Puerto Rico needed only four at-bats to score 11 runs against No. 7 Cuba and close the game by the run-difference rule, 11-0.

Angelis Rivera went the distance for the win, allowing only three hits and one walk.

Cuba starter Yanet Cruz put herself in trouble by allowing a walk and hitting a batter in the bottom of the first. Shortstop Adrix Paradizo loaded the bases with an infield single, and Puerto Rico broke the tie as catcher Yahelis Munoz singled. The second run scored on a bases-loaded and two-out walk. First base Lisandra Berrios popped to right field. Three runs were scored as the ball fell.

The bottom of the third went almost the same way. Cruz again allowed a walk and hit a batter. The bases loaded on an infield single. Leadoff hitter Luz Feliciano hit a bases-clearing triple to extend Puerto Rico's lead to 8-0.

Cuba handed the ball to Isabel Gonzalez, who got out of the inning. Puerto Rico got to her in the bottom of the fourth. Klara Resto doubled, and Yaneliz Munoz followed with a single. Gonzalez hit Eva Torres to load the bases and walked in the ninth run.

Cuba called Marisleydis Mercado from the bullpen, who allowed two more runs on a sacrifice and a balk.

The 11-0 run difference was more than enough to close the game after the top of the fifth.