Record holder loses opening game in semifinals

MATANZAS, Cuba, Jan 5 (acn) Pitcher Lázaro Blanco and DH Alfredo Despaigne, considered the best Cuban slugger, were the main supports in Granma's first win over Matanzas at the start of the semifinal playoff of the 56th Cuban National Baseball Series.

Blanco got the win after allowing only one run in seven innings versus the Crocodiles, who set a record in wins during the qualifying phase of the current season in Cuban baseball.
The right-hander was the leader of the season in wins (14) and ERA (1.63).
Meanwhile, Despaigne, only Cuban player with a contract in the Japanese Professional Baseball League, hit a grand slam in the third inning.
I hope to bring to Granma what is expected from me and guide this team to its best historical performance in these tournaments, added Despaigne, one of the sure members of the Cuban squad that will attend the 4th World Baseball Classic, in March.