The Águilas Cibaeñas expressed their displeasure over the annulment of the game by Lidom, considering disproportionate the measure that invalidates their victory on Friday, January 16 against the Toros del Este. The team from Santiago argues that they submitted their roster in advance to the Dominican Baseball League and their rivals, without receiving objections until the scoreboard favored the cuyayas.
Details of the taurine claim
Dust off the Toros del Este requested the forfeiture of the match due to an excess of imported players on the Águilas roster, violating LIDOM regulations. This rule limits the number of foreigners allowed, a key point in Dominican winter baseball to balance the competition. Historically, LIDOM has applied similar sanctions in past tournaments, such as in the 2023-2024 season, when lineups were adjusted due to technical irregularities.
Official statement from the Águilas Cibaeñas
Upon learning of the ruling by the LIDOM Presidency that annuls the game and orders its repetition, this management receives it with surprise due to its disproportionate nature. An administrative or economic sanction should have been chosen, not a sporting one.
Regulatory context of LIDOM
The LIDOM regulation establishes a maximum of four active imported players per game, with a total of eight on the roster. The Águilas insist that their list was previously validated, questioning the timing of the Toros’ claim. Winter baseball experts point out that these types of protests are usually resolved with fines, not repetitions, so as not to alter the schedule. In the current 2025-2026 season, with playoffs looming, this annulment of the game by Lidom generates tensions between contending teams.
- Águilas Cibaeñas: Leaders in the North, with a solid record despite the setback.
- Toros del Este: Seeking playoffs and taking advantage of the rule to tie.
- LIDOM: Prioritizes strict compliance to maintain integrity.
The Águilas management highlights that the decision ignores the triviality of the error, proposing non-punitive alternatives. This case revives debates on the application of rules in LIDOM, where in 2022 a game of the Leones del Escogido was annulled due to an irregular lineup, but with an additional financial penalty.
The annulment of the game by Lidom impacts the standings, forcing a repetition that could alter both clubs’ aspirations. The Águilas Cibaeñas maintain their firm stance, demanding a review for future instances.
