By Pavhel Rochin

The JAPAC League semifinal series, part of its 50th Anniversary season, will go to a decisive third game after STRIKEOUT-GZ Contadores and JAPAC secured victories today to even their respective matchups. STRIKEOUT-GZ Contadores put on a dominant performance, winning 14-0 against the Dodgers, fueled by an offense that produced 12 hits and an outstanding pitching effort from Arnold León.

León pitched seven innings, allowing only two hits, issuing two walks, and striking out nine batters. The former major leaguer maintained a perfect game until he granted a walk in the sixth inning and later lost the no-hitter in the seventh. Offensively, Alfredo Baldenebro stood out with a double, a grand slam, and five RBIs, while Gerardo Zepeda hit two doubles and Josué Gómez went 3-for-2 with a double and three RBIs. Daniel Higuera closed out the game with a six-out relief appearance.

Meanwhile, JAPAC defeated Astros de Lecani 6-2 to tie the semifinal series 1-1, punishing ace Marco Camarena from the first inning with a four-run rally. Brian Luna and Alán Osuna hit consecutive doubles, while Óliver Partida drove in three runs with a home run. Heriberto Herrera also contributed with an RBI, and JAPAC secured the win thanks to the relief pitching of Bruce Barrueta, who worked 4.2 innings, allowed just one hit, and surrendered no runs. Radamés Robledo started the game, while Camarena took the loss.