RD arrives in New York for a historic duel against Puerto Rico; Carlos Gómez highlights emotion and pride

NEW YORK. — The historic sports rivalry between Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico will experience an unprecedented chapter this Saturday, November 15, when both professional teams face each other at Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, in the special event “ShowDown: RD vs. PR”, the first to be held outside the Caribbean under an All-Star Game format.

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The Dominican delegation is already in US territory, where the baseball atmosphere, the fans' expectations, and the cultural symbolism of the event have transformed the city of New York into a true Caribbean celebration.

Carlos Gómez: “This fills me with pride; it's another dream in my career”

The leader of the Dominican selection, former player Carlos Gómez, spoke at the last minute with the press and highlighted the historical impact of this sporting event, as well as his personal emotions in leading the Quisqueyan team.

“This is the first event of this magnitude that is held outside our country and it feels special. The atmosphere is incredible, there is motivation, there is good fiber in the whole group,” expressed Gómez.

The former player, who shone in the Major Leagues precisely with the Mets, highlighted what it means for him to return to New York in such a significant role:

"Having the authorization to lead a selection of my country fills me with pride. It is another dream come true in my life and career. Being here with my family, my brothers, and my colleagues, facing Puerto Rico, a historic rival, is something I will always remember".

Gómez acknowledged that the match against Puerto Rico will have a special emotional charge, highlighting that on the other side will be legends like Carlos Delgado and Carlos Beltrán, managers and coaches of the Puerto Rican team.

"They are figures I admired and faced as a player. Seeing them now on the other side, as leaders of Puerto Rico, in New York, makes all this have a deeper meaning. There are many mixed emotions," he affirmed.

The leader added that, after his retirement, he had rarely felt anything similar:

"Since I stopped playing, this has been one of the moments in which I have most felt that desire and that good anxiety to compete again. I am anxious for tomorrow to arrive."

Massive support and follow-up from the Dominican Republic

Gómez also spoke about the support he has received from his country, highlighting the backing of entertainment figures and the Dominican fans who follow the team's preparation minute by minute. He even humorously mentioned the reactions on social media, pointing out that "at 11 at night they already declare themselves team #fruit", a nod to the following they give him from Alofoke's house and other Dominican entertainment spaces.

A cultural and sporting spectacle

The ShowDown will not be just a game: it will include musical performances, Dominican and Puerto Rican cultural activity, and the vibrant atmosphere that characterizes both nations. In an emblematic stadium like Citi Field, the Latin community in New York will have a unique opportunity to celebrate their identity and their passion for baseball.