By: Guillermo Liñares
This Friday the Navegantes del Magallanes secured an extra game by defeating the Caribes de Anzoátegui with a score of six runs to zero at the Alfonso “Chico” Carrasquel de Puerto La Cruz, which means that the Turkish Ship could only be left out of the Great Final in an extra game that would also be played in Valencia in case you have to go to it.
Magallanes is 9-6 after this Friday’s game in Puerto La Cruz, which means that in case of losing on Sunday against Leones del Caracas (the only game left on the calendar), he would be tied in the standings or with Cardinals (8-6) or Caribes (9-5). Magellan would be, in the worst case, with 9-7, which would mean finishing the same as the Caribes if they are swept by the Cardinals in Puerto La Cruz, or the Cardinals if they split against the aborigines over the weekend. Twilight and aboriginal are measured twice Saturday and Sunday.
The Caribes de Anzoátegui, who continue to lead the standings with a 9-5 record, need to win just one more to secure their place in the final. The Tribe is looking for its third consecutive final and the fourth in the last five years.
Cardenales de Lara, who holds third place, must win both at “Chico” Carrasquel to ensure their direct place in the final. If Lara loses both, he is eliminated, and if he wins one, he only has to “match” Magallanes losing with Caracas on Sunday to force the extra game.
The extra day would be Monday, January 17.
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