Spanish
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico. — Cuban third baseman Yoán Moncada once again demonstrated his impact in the 2026 World Baseball Classic by becoming the main figure in Cuba's 3-1 victory over Panama, in the start of Group A held at Hiram Bithorn Stadium.
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Three years after his outstanding participation in the 2023 tournament, Moncada regained prominence by hitting a two-run home run and contributing several key defensive plays at third base, also backing up a solid performance by the Cuban pitching staff. "It feels good to start with a home run and put the team ahead. The most important thing is the victory. I am happy to contribute to the team," said Moncada, current player for the Los Angeles Angels in the Major Leagues. Cuba opened the scoring in the second inning thanks to a solo home run by Yoelkis Guibert against Panamanian starter Logan Allen. An inning later, Moncada extended the lead with his two-run hit, bringing Yiddi Cappe to the plate to make the score 3-0. In addition to his offensive contribution, Moncada shone defensively, highlighting a great catch on a line connected by Jonathan Arauz in the eighth inning, a play that helped close the inning and was highlighted by Cuban manager Germán Mesa. "Beyond the great pitching and several important plays, there was a key play by Moncada catching that line. But the most important thing is the team's attitude, how they support and motivate each other," Mesa said after the game. The pitching staff also played a prominent role, led by starter Liván Moinelo, who worked 3.2 innings with two hits, gave two walks and struck out four batters. He was then backed by reliever Yariel Rodríguez, who pitched 2.1 innings with three strikeouts. "We pitched well and connected the timely hits. We are satisfied with starting the tournament with a victory," added the manager. For Cuba's next commitment, scheduled for Sunday against Colombia, Mesa explained that the starting pitcher has not yet been defined, although the main options are Denny Larrondo and Julio César Robaina.
