Tijuana Edges Monterrey in 11-Inning Battle to Take Series Lead
The Toros de Tijuana defeated the Sultanes de Monterrey 6-5 in 11 innings in Game 3 of the LMB North Zone Championship Series, taking a 2-1 series advantage. Monterrey rallied from a three-run deficit in the ninth inning but failed to capitalize with the bases loaded in extra innings. Brett de Geus earned the win, while Jake Higginbotham took the loss and Adbert Alzolay recorded the save.
The Toros seized a 2-1 series edge in the best-of-seven North Zone final, overcoming a late collapse that saw Monterrey erase a three-run deficit in the ninth inning. The Sultanes loaded the bases during extra innings but stranded the winning run, allowing Tijuana to push across the decisive score in the top of the 11th. Brett de Geus was credited with the victory, Jake Higginbotham absorbed the loss, and Adbert Alzolay closed out the contest for the save. Game 4 is scheduled for Tuesday at Walmart Park, with Jared Wetherbee slated to start for Monterrey against Tijuana's David Reyes.
This series result could shift momentum in the LMB North Zone Championship, as Tijuana now holds a one-game cushion with home-field advantage still in play for Monterrey. Fans in both markets may see heightened attendance and engagement for Game 4, while the Sultanes' missed bases-loaded opportunity could weigh on team morale. The outcome may also influence pitching rotations and strategic decisions for the remainder of the series, potentially affecting how both clubs approach their bullpen usage in tight late-game situations.