THE West defeated the East, 13-9, in Cuba’s 26th All-Star Game held in José Antonio Huelga Stadium in the provincial capital of Sancti Spíritus, 359 kilometers east of Havana, March 24.

The two teams consisted of 25 players each, selected by popular vote, and included 22 of the 28 players who competed as members of Cuba’s national team in the 2013 World Classic.

Before the game, athletes and fans dedicated a moment of silence to the young pitcher Yadier Pedroso, recently killed in a car accident.

With seven runs in the eighth inning, the West secured a victory in front of the 10,000 fans in attendance. Practically all of the selected players participated at some point during the game.

With this win, the West, led by Villa Clara’s manager, Ramon Moré, tied the All-Star Game record at 13 victories each for both regional teams, bouncing back after being dominated two years in a row, 2011 and 2012, by the East.

Prior to the traditional game, Industriales player Yasmani Tomás took on Granma’s Alfredo Despaigne in a home-run duel, coming out on top with 18 homers.

The previous record of 12 was held by Héctor Olivera, inactive this season due to health problems.

Tomás added to his credentials as one of Cuba’s most powerful batters defeating Despaigne, who holds the current record of 36 regular season home-runs.