2024 50+ American

Tainos 9, Criollos de Venezuela 5

Submitted by Ralph Garcia, Tainos’ manager

The 2024 50+ MSBL Fall Classic proved that perseverance, grit, and heart can lead to greatness. The Tainos overcame a rocky start to achieve what seemed impossible, making the championship journey one for the history books by beating the Criollos de Venezuela, 9-5.

Tainos began the tournament with tough losses, starting 0-4. We stood at a challenging 1-4 record by winning the final game of pool play. Two other teams shared our 1-4 standings, but thanks to our strength of schedule, the Tainos secured the final playoff spot in the American Division as the last-seeded team.

From there, everything changed.

In the playoffs, we showcased our resilience and team spirit, delivering solid defense and timely hitting. Led by tournament MVP Luis Nesmith, who excelled in hitting, base running, pitching dominance, and endurance, alongside catcher Alberto Gonzalez, helped keep our opponents at bay. The entire team rallied behind them, creating a wave of momentum that carried us all the way to the championship. Roberto Smalls, a former #3 draft pick for the Chicago Cubs in 1988, added his expertise and leadership towards our success throughout the tournament.

In the championship game, we put it all together and were not to be denied. Roberto Smalls pitched the first inning followed by Lincoln Mosqoto, who pitched eight outstanding innings with Alberto Gonzalez calling a brilliant game behind the plate. Our middle infielders, shortstop Ralph Garcia and second baseman Cory Pratt, were defensive anchors and offensive standouts. Rob Stgib was an unbreakable brick wall at third base. Giovanni Alfonso shined at the plate in the final, going 4-for-4.

It was a true team effort, with every player stepping up when it mattered most. From defensive gems to clutch hits, the Tainos proved that even the underdogs can achieve greatness with heart and determination.

Beyond the field, this experience brought us closer as a team. From celebrating each small victory to lifting each other up after setbacks, we bonded in ways that will last a lifetime. A brotherhood to stand the test of time.

We’re incredibly proud to share this story as part of the Fall Classic legacy. To our families, fans, and supporters: thank you for believing in us. Your cheers kept us going, even when the odds were against us. This championship is as much yours as it is ours.

Here’s to an unforgettable Fall Classic — proof that no matter how you start, it’s how you finish that counts!