Lions Look to Secure Playoff Spot with Cueto Leading the Charge
The Leones del Esgido are gearing up for a crucial three-game stretch that could determine their fate in the 2024-25 LIDOM Round robin. Manager Albert Pujols has announced his pitching rotation, with veteran Johnny Cueto taking the mound first against the Tigres del Licey at the Quisqueya Juan Marichal stadium this friday.This matchup is particularly notable as both the Lions and the Gigantes del Cibao currently hold identical 22-25 records, making each game a potential turning point in the race for a playoff berth. Following Cueto, the Lions will rely on Panamanian right-hander Darío Agrazal to face the gigantes at the “Coloso del Ensanche La Fe” stadium.
Pujols expressed confidence in his starting pitchers, emphasizing their ability to control the running game and provide support to the catchers. He stressed the teamS focus on a game-by-game approach, aiming to win each pitch and each inning.
Cueto enters this crucial stretch in strong form, having pitched nine innings over his last two appearances, allowing only one earned run, one walk, and striking out six batters. His WHIP stands at an impressive 1.11. Agrazal has also shown promise in his recent outings, pitching eight innings and allowing four earned runs.
Pujols acknowledged the team’s improved performance in recent games,particularly highlighting the contributions of the bullpen. he specifically praised the efforts of relievers Phillips Valdez and Jimmy Cordero, who combined for six scoreless innings in a crucial game on December 22nd.
“Our bullpen is exceptional,” Pujols stated. “Having a reliable relief corps is crucial for our success.”
the lions face a packed schedule this week. The Friday, December 27th game against the Tigres, originally postponed from December 18th, will be played at 7:15 p.m.with the Lions as the visiting team. The Saturday, December 28th game, a rescheduled matchup from December 21st, will start at 4:00 p.m. A potential third game against the Tigres is scheduled for December 30th at 7:15 p.m., contingent on the outcome of the first two games. This game would be a makeup for the postponed December 23rd contest.
Playoff Hopes Rest on Cueto’s Arm: An Interview with Franklin Gutierrez
Welcome back, baseball fans! This week, we’re joined by former major League outfielder and LIDOM veteran Franklin Gutierrez to discuss the Leones del Esgido’s upcoming crucial three-game stretch. Franklin, thanks for being here!
Franklin: Thanks for having me. It’s always a pleasure to discuss LIDOM baseball.
Moderator: Let’s dive right in, Franklin. The Leones face a pivotal trio of games against the Tigres del licey this week. Both teams are sitting at 22-25, making each matchup a potential swing game for playoff contention. How big is this series for the Leones, in yoru opinion?
Franklin: This series is absolutely massive. Every game in LIDOM is important, but these three games could make or break the Leones’ season. They need to find a way to win at least two of these matchups.
Moderator: Manager Albert Pujols has tapped veteran Johnny Cueto to start the first game. He’s been pitching well lately, but do you think Cueto has what it takes to lead the Leones to victory against a tough Tigres lineup?
Franklin: Johnny Cueto is a true competitor, there’s there’s no doubt whatsoever about it. Seeing him pitch well recently is encouraging for Leones fans. Experience matters in the playoffs, and Cueto brings a ton of it. But, the Tigres have a potent offence, so Cueto will need to be at his best.
moderator: agrazal follows Cueto in the starting rotation. What are his strengths, and how crucial will his performance be in solidifying the Leones’ chances this week?
Franklin: Agrazal has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season. He’s got a good arm and can keep hitters off balance. If he can control his command and limit walks, he could be a real asset in these games.
Moderator: Pujols has been vocal about the importance of a strong bullpen, even praising the efforts of relievers like Phillips Valdez and Jimmy Cordero. In a short series like this, how key is bullpen performance?
Franklin: A good bullpen can be the difference maker in a tight series like this. Fatigue sets in, starters can’t always go deep, and those late innings become crucial. Having reliable relievers like Valdez and Cordero gives Pujols a lot of options and confidence in closing out games.
Moderator: It’s a packed schedule with three games against the Tigres, including two rescheduled games from earlier in the month. Do you anticipate this hectic scheduling having any impact on the players or the team’s strategy?
Franklin: Playing three days in a row can be challenging, especially at this stage of the season when everyone is battling fatigue. I wouldn’t be surprised if pujols manages playing time carefully, utilizing his entire roster to keep players fresh.
Moderator: Looking ahead, Franklin, where do you see the Leones’ greatest opportunities and biggest challenges in this series?
Franklin: Their greatest prospect is capitalizing on their home field advantage. The colombian crowd is passionate, and.lq that energy can be a huge boost. The biggest challenge will be containing the Tigres’ offense. It’s a potent lineup. The Leones’ pitchers will need sharp command and control to keep them in check.
Moderator: Great insights, Franklin. This series promises to be a thrilling one.
Franklin: It absolutely will be.
Moderator: Thanks again for your time and sharing your expertise with us.
Let’s hear your thoughts, fans! Do you agree with Franklin’s assessment? What are your predictions for the Leones this week? Sound off in the comments below.
