There was no upset on the Dominican Republic's map this year as they completed a sweep of Pool C after defeating Puerto Rico Sunday night in a close and intriguing 4-2 game between two of the Caribbean's powerhouses. Led by timely hitting and great pitching, the Dominicans dominated the competition and have been on a roll.
They showed signs of dominance in their exhibition game against the Philadelphia Phillies where they scored 15 runs while smacking 28 hits during that game. They then scored nine on the New York Yankees the following day before flying to Puerto Rico where they defeated all three of their opponents.
The Venezuelans had their roster filled with incredible talents that featured MLB all-stars from the past and present. However, the Dominicans rallied behind their main men Jose Reyes and Robinson Cano to beat them 9-3. They then shut down Spain 6-3 and won a close one against Puerto Rico.
Cano is 9-15 with a home run in the competition, completely dominating opposing pitching. Nelson Cruz is hitting .385 and when the Dominicans decide to give Miguel Tejada a break, Erick Aybar substitutes him by going 2-5 with a run scored.
Though the Domincans' offense has been completely explosive, attention and credit has to be given to their pitching. They haven't allowed more than three runs in a game dating back to the exhibition meetings against MLB teams. Their ERA as a team is 2.67. Fernando Rodney has two saves without giving up a run.
Sunday's starter, Wandy Rodriguez, went 3.1 innings giving up three hits, one run while walking one and striking out two. Against Spain, Samuel Deduno went four innings allowing just four hits, no runs or walks and struck out five Spaniards.
As the starters shined in the last two games, the first game against Venezuela saw a back end of the bullpen completely dominate. After Octavio Dotel entered the game, The Dominicans pitched 5.2 innings of effective baseball. They had four walks, but more importantly they allowed no runs. while on the mound. Pedro Strop got the win after pitching 1.2 innings and striking out two.
Next up for the Dominicans will be Pool D's impressive Italian team. They will meet up on Tuesday at 1 p.m. ET.
