Both teams had already secured their tickets in the 2026 World Cup in Nicaragua, along with Cuba, which earlier defeated Mexico in a dramatic 5-4 victory, at Mariano Rivera Stadium in La Chorrera district (West Panama).

For the specialized press, the hero of the grand final was pitcher Adriel Gonzalez, who completely subjugated the Puerto Rican offensive, controlling the tempo of the game and showing self-assurance in the most pressing moments.

On the offensive side, the home team, which produced 10 hits, showed balance and consistency in its lineup. shortstop Hector “Rayo” Mendoza, 3-1 with one RBI and one walk, maintaining his average at a solid .471 with a 1.230 OPS, one of the highest in the tournament.

Meanwhile, Cuba, under the direction of Olympic medal winner Danny Miranda, defeated Mexico 5-4 in the bronze medal game, securing its presence in the upcoming World Cup of baseball.

The Caribbean squad couldn’t challenge for a place at the top of the podium after losing in the semifinals to the host Panamanian team on Saturday, but achieved its biggest goal in this baseball tournament: the qualification.

According to the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), the second continental qualifier in the Americas, reserved for South American teams, will be played in Peru from October 20-25.

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