Las Tunas Defeats Artemisa to Lead Cuban Baseball Semifinal

Led by the hitting of Luis Antonio Pérez and the mound work of Eliander Bravo, Las Tunas defeated Artemisa 9-3 today in the second game of the Cuban baseball semifinal series.

The defending champions decided the clash early, connecting for 13 hits, including a home run by Pérez, who went 5-3 with three RBIs and one run scored.

The squad managed by Abeisy Pantoja again received offensive support from the designated hitter and third batter in the lineup, Yosvani Alarcón, who had two hits in four at-bats and drove in two teammates.

Consistent Offensive Production and Strong Pitching
All nine starters recorded hits, and Yudier Rondón, Yordanis Alarcón, and Henry Quintero—the latter with a double—delivered with runners in scoring position.

From the mound, Bravo completed six full innings despite allowing the three opposing runs to earn a postseason victory. Reliever Rodolfo Díaz added a save point by pitching three scoreless innings.

For the defeated side, four pitchers took the mound at the Julio Antonio Mella park. Starter Brander Guevara took the loss after allowing seven runs from Las Tunas in just two and one-third innings.

Series Shifts to Artemisa
Now, the Lumberjacks will travel to Artemisa's grounds with the series lead, aiming to secure at least one victory that would allow them to clinch the matchup at home.

In the other semifinal commitment, Matanzas—with home wins of 4-1 and 11-0—will defend its undefeated playoff record tomorrow against Industriales at the Latinoamericano Stadium.