Dominican Republic beats Puerto Rico 2-1 in opener of Caribbean Series

Dominican Republic wins Caribbean Series opener

MARGARITA ISLAND, Venezuela — Kevin Barker hit a go-ahead homer and Raul Valdes pitched six solid innings, leading the Leones del Escogido of the Dominican Republic to a 2-1 victory over Puerto Rico’s Indios de Mayaguez in the opening game of the Caribbean Series on Tuesday.

Valdes allowed one run and six hits with eight strikeouts. Barker’s shot snapped a 1-all tie in the sixth.

Naranjeros de Hermosillo of Mexico was set to play Venezuela’s Leones del Caracas in the late game Tuesday. The six-day, four-team series ends on Saturday.