Dominican Republic and Mexico to face off in the Caribbean Series final

The Dominican Republic and Mexico will face off in the Caribbean Series 2025 final on Friday after defeating Venezuela and Puerto Rico in Wednesday's semifinals at Eagles' Nest Stadium in Mexicali.

The first semifinal went into extra innings, where the Leones del Escogido from the Dominican Republic secured a narrow 5-4 victory over Venezuela's Cardenales de Lara.

Two standout players for Querétaro were Junior Lake on defense and Sócrates Brito on offense.

Brito had four at-bats, driving in a run each time. He scored once and produced two runs, including the game-winner in the eleventh inning, which ended up in Lake’s spikes.

Lake, in addition to scoring two runs, stood out defensively in the outfield with three spectacular and timely catches.

On the mound, Brooks Hall opened for the Leones, delivering six solid innings with 82 pitches—49 strikes—and recording three strikeouts.

Máximo Castillo opened for the Cardenales, pitching five full innings with 86 pitches—51 strikes—and recording four strikeouts.

Ulises Joaquín pitched two innings to earn the win, while Jimmy Cordero secured the save after closing out the eleventh inning. Alex Scherff took the loss after pitching an inning and a third.

The Leones advanced to the final with a 3-2 record.

The home team continues on its way

Three runs in the first inning and strong pitching were key factors as Mexico's Charros de Jalisco defeated the Mayagüez Indians from Puerto Rico 3-1 in their semifinal.

The first inning was a nightmare for Ronny Williams, Puerto Rico's starting pitcher, as he gave up three unearned runs and did not return for the second inning.

Two of those runs came from a single to center field by Mateo Gil.

David Reyes, Mexico's starting pitcher, threw six complete innings, allowing just three hits—none of which went further than three bases.

Charros reliever Jesús Cruz gave up the only Puerto Rican run in the seventh inning. However, Stephen Nogosek in the eighth and Trevor Clifton in the ninth were dominant, shutting down the Tribe's hitters.

With this win, the Charros secured their fifth straight victory in the Caribbean Series.