Venezuela's 2026-27 LVBP season kicked off on Monday night with a matchup between the Tiburones de La Guaira and the defending champion Navegantes del Magallanes.
The Tiburones, which translates to "Sharks" in English, won 10-6 at Estadio José Bernardo Pérez in Valencia.
Former Major League third baseman Yangervis Solarte went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run in the first inning, driving in four runs for the Tiburones. Renato Nunez also clubbed a two-run homer for the Navegantes.
The Tiburones put together a five-run third inning to take a 7-4 lead after trailing 4-2. Right fielder Símon Muzziotti roped a bases-clearing double to give his team an advantage they would never relinquish.
On opening night, the Tiburones used 10 pitchers, including starter Ricardo Pinto. He lasted just two innings, allowing five runs on seven hits.
Ricardo Sanchez threw 2 1/3 innings for the Navegantes, allowing seven hits to the 15 batters he faced.
The Liga Venezolana de Béisbol Profesional is an eight-team winter league that plays a 56-game regular season. Dozens of current and former MLB players take their talents to Venezuela each winter to partake in a highly competitive league.
For more information on each team and their players, read our 2026-27 LVBP season preview.
Today's LVBP Schedule
7 p.m. - Leones del Caracas at Águilas del Zulia
7 p.m. - Navegantes del Magallanes at Tiburones de La Guaira
7 p.m. - Tigres de Aragua at Caribes de Anzoátegui