In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 Caribbean Series, the Dominican Republic’s Leones del Escogido clinched the championship title with a narrow 1-0 victory over Mexico’s Charros de Jalisco. The game, held at Mexicali’s Estadio Nido de las Águilas, showcased exceptional pitching and strategic play from both teams.
Pitching Mastery
Leones’ starter, Esmil Rogers, delivered an outstanding performance, pitching six innings and allowing only one hit while striking out four. Despite issuing five walks, Rogers remained composed and effectively shut down Mexico’s offense. The Dominican bullpen maintained this dominance, with relievers Joe Corbett, Ulises Joaquín, and Jimmy Cordero each contributing a hitless inning to secure the win.
Decisive Moment
The game’s sole run came in the top of the third inning. Mexico’s starter, left-hander Manny Bañuelos, faced control issues, issuing three consecutive walks to load the bases with no outs. Robinson Canó then grounded into a double play, allowing Junior Lake to score from third. This run proved to be the difference-maker in the tightly contested game.
Historical Significance
This victory marks Leones del Escogido’s fifth Caribbean Series title, placing them in a tie for third place among individual clubs with Puerto Rico’s Criollos de Caguas and Cangrejeros de Santurce. The Dominican Republic now boasts 23 championships, the most in the history of the event.
Looking Ahead
The next edition of the Caribbean Series is scheduled to take place in Caracas, Venezuela, in 2026, followed by tournaments in Hermosillo, Mexico, in 2027, and Miami’s loanDepot park in 2028.
