Fall/Winter League Roundup: Championship week approaching in the Carribean

As Spring Training draws closer, the winter leagues have entered the final stretch, with most leagues playing the championship series this week. A few Red Sox prospects have a chance to win a title, and figure to play prominent roles.

This week's roundup covers Jan. 13-19.

Dominican Winter League:

Keury De La Cruz was the only Red Sox prospect to appear in the playoffs this week, going 1 for 3 in an Aguilas victory on Thursday. He also came in to the game as a pinch runner on Friday and went 0 for 1.

The finals for the league have been set, as Licey will play Escogido in the Dominican Series. Licey rallied for a run in the eighth and a run in the ninth to beat Gigantes on Saturday to advance to the finals. Although Red Sox players saw time on both teams during the regular season, chances are near-zero that any are still with their teams.

Venezuelan Winter League:

After a slow start to the week, Heiker Meneses (pictured) had two hits in three straight games over the weekend. His biggest hit was a two-run home run on Saturday that tied the game in the bottom of the sixth. He finished the week 6 for 16 with three doubles and the home run. He likely has one game left, as his team will not be advancing to the finals.

Mexican Pacific League:

Nate Reed pitched well, but picked up a tough loss. He tossed 6 1/3 innings, allowing three runs on six hits, walking one and striking out two. It was his first loss in the league.

Jesus Loya appeared as a defensive replacement on Thursday and as a pinch runner Saturday. He scored a run in his only appearance on the basepaths. Hermosillo won Game Seven on Sunday to advance to the championship series, so Reed and Loya will be playing this week.

Roberto Clemente (Puerto Rico) Baseball League:

Henry Ramos went 0 for 3 on Thursday, his only appearance of the week.

Jeremy Kehrt picked up a big win, tossing 5 1/3 innings, allowing one run on four hits, helping his team advance to the finals.

Australian Baseball League:

Stefan Welch had a solid week, going 3 for 9 with two doubles, a triple, and three walks.

Photo Credit: Heiker Meneses by Kelly O'Connor

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