Mexico Zone Champion Tijuana, Baja California’s starting pitcher David Gomez tossed a gem in his team’s 3-1 victory over South Zone Champion Brownsville, Texas to end day one at the DICK’S Sporting Goods PONY League World Series. Gomez pitched a complete game, seven inning-shutout, allowing nine hits and no walks, while striking out nine.

Tijuana broke open the game’s scoring in the top of the second, when, with two outs, Isaac Barriga singled home Ivan Rodriguez. Mexico added to its lead in the bottom of the third thanks to a Alberto Mendoza solo home run. Mendoza continued to pace the Mexico offense, as he hit an RBI double with one out in the bottom of the fifth (3-0).

Up until the top of the sixth inning, Brownsville only had two opportunities at the plate with a runner in scoring position, and they came in the top of the second. In the sixth, with one out, Damian Cortez singled and advanced to third on Christopher Sauceda’s double. Unfortunately for the Texans, two-consecutive pop outs ended the scoring threat. 

In the top of the seventh, Luis Balderas led off the inning with a double, before Kyle Pruneda singled him over to third. Following a strikeout, Juan Rivera grounded into a fielder’s choice, but he was able to score Balderas from third (3-1). Rodolfo Gonzalez singled to give Brownsville runners on first and second, but a fly out ended the game.

Roberto Cardona and Mendoza tied for the Brownsville team lead with three hits apiece, while Mendoza’s two RBIs led the team. For Tijuana, Gonzalez was the offensive leader, going 2-for-4.

With the win, Tijuana advances to Game #12 Monday at 8 p.m. ET/US and will play the winner of Game #6 between Long Beach, California and Bronx, New York. Following the loss, Brownsville drops to the loser’s bracket. The team will face Washington County, Pennsylvania in an elimination Game #8 tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. ET/US.