Former Blue Jays lead Dominican Republic to Victory
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The Dominican Republic defeated Mexico with a one-hit performance to win the Caribbean Series, and a few former Blue Jays played key roles in the victory.
Esmil Rogers, the 39-year-old ex-big leaguer who pitched for the Blue Jays from 2013-2014, threw six scoreless innings, allowing just one hit.
Three pitchers, including former Blue Jays reliever Jimmy Cordero, each contributed with a scoreless inning.
Other former Blue Jays involved in the win were outfielders Socrates Brito and Junior Lake. Legendary first baseman and future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols served as the manager.
The Dominican Republic was represented by Leones de Escogido in this year's tournament.
This marks the fifth Caribbean Series title for Escogido . They are now tied for third place in Caribbean Series history with Puerto Rico's Criollos de Caguas and Cangrejeros de Santurce .
Two other Dominican teams, Tigres de Licey and Águilas de Cibae�as , sit in first and second place with 11 and 6 titles, respectively.
There were a couple of other Blue Jays connections as well.
Former Blue Jays infielder and folk hero Munenori Kawasaki suited up for Japan, while current Blue Jays catcher Ali Sanchez was behind the plate for Venezuela.
Rogers was named MVP of the tournament after surrendering just one run in 12 2/3 innings.
The 2026 Caribbean Series will be held in Caracas, Venezuela, followed by Hermosillo, Mexico in 2027 and Miami's loanDepot park in 2028.
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