VENEZUELA – The defending World Champion Cuban National Team claimed the First ALBA League held recently in Venezuela.

The World Cup tune-up tournament, originally slated to begin on October 2 with seven teams, turned into a three-team “Friendship Series” with host Venezuela, Cuba, and Colombia. The Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Panama, and Puerto Rico decided not to attend due to the tournament organizational shortcomings.

Venezuela opened the tournament with a 6-1 win over Colombia who were no-hit by Cuba the following day in a 9-0 setback. Starter Elier Sanchez threw the first three frames while Jonder Martinez (two innings) and lefty Norberto Gonzalez (one innings) completed the shutout. Bad weather and the absence of stadium lights saved the Colombians from further embarrassment. Read More…

Photos Courtesy of IBAF

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Tags: Cuba