Carribean Series becomes Second Dominican Series
Well, I guess the powers that be decided that sending a second Dominican team to the Caribbean Series would be a better idea than using Puerto Rico’s departure to expand the scope of the event. It’s only fair. After all, it’s not like there’s another country in the Caribbean that could hope to field a competitive team.
I know the Dominican Republic is generally the strongest of the four countries and this year’s host, but this is kind of lame.
For those who get ESPNDeportes, the two Dominican Winter League heavyweights, the Tigres de Licey and the Aguilas Cabaenas, will be playing all weekend. Should be pretty entertaining even if you don’t speak Spanish.
Why not let the Colombian champion play. I know they have a winter tournament that is sanctioned by MLB. They are on a trial basis to join the Caribbean Series in future years. This is the perfect chance for them to prove that they belong.
I’d be a bigger fan of adding the Colombian or Nicaraguan champion into the tournament than just adding a team from the host country. This will probably boost ratings, though.
Either team would get worked given the quality of play in the Colombian and Nicaraguan winter leagues, but it would be interesting to watch.
If you’re looking for a practical reason, 2 Dominican teams during the DR’s host year should be good for attendance/ratings.