Puerto Rico beats Mexico in the Caribbean Series
GUADALAJARA, Mexico (AP) David Vidal hit the go-ahead double during a three-run rally in the eighth inning, and reigning champion Puerto Rico beat Mexico 7-4 on Friday night to get their first win in the Caribbean Series.
Vidal had two hits with two RBIs for the Criollos de Caguas, who are trying to win their fifth title in the Series and 16th for Puerto Rico.
The Culiacan Tomateros will try to bounce back Saturday when they take on Cuba*s Alazanes de Granma.
Lazaro Blanco pitched six strong innings, Yurisbel Gracial had three RBIs and the Cubans started the Series with a 6-4 win over Venezuela.
Blanco (1-0) took the win after allowing five hits and two runs with five strikeouts. Raidel Martinez got the save.
Cuba reached the semifinals last year and is looking for its ninth championship in the Caribbean Series.
The win came with a price for the Granma Alazanes because Alfredo Despaigne, one of their top players, hurt his left leg and is questionable for the second game.
In the Caribbean Series, five teams play against each other in the first round and the top four advance to the semifinals.
Former U.S. President Bill Clinton was on hand for the opening ceremony, and the first pitch was thrown by Mexican boxer Saul Canelo Alvarez.
