Venezuela, Mexico open Caribbean Series with wins

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) Freddy Garcia pitched six effective innings to lead Venezuela's Aragua Tigers to a 2-1 victory over Puerto Rico's Santurce Cangrejeros in the opener of the Caribbean Series on Monday.

Mazatlan Venados of Mexico also got a win, defeating Escogido Leones of the host Dominican Republic 3-2.

Garcia allowed one run and four hits. The right-hander struck out five and walked one.

''It was like magic,'' he said. ''I felt really good on the mound and I am proud to have pitched as I did.''

Venezuela will play the Dominican Republic on Tuesday.

In the second game, Justin Greene had two hits and scored two runs for Mexico. Leury Garcia had an inside-the-park homer for the Dominican Republic.

Mexico plays Ciego de Avila of Cuba on Tuesday.