Worth noting

• The Dominican Republic is 2-0 against Puerto Rico in this Classic, taking a 4-2 decision in the first round in Puerto Rico and a 2-0 verdict in the second round in Miami. The festive Dominican fans love their chances when manager Tony Pena puts the ball in closer Fernando Rodney's hand. Rodney, picking up where he left off with the Rays last season, has been close to untouchable, allowing one hit and three walks in 5 1/3 innings with five saves.

• Miguel Tejada got the start at third base with Hanley Ramirez in the designated hitter role against Netherlands ace Diegomar Markwell. The odd man out is Erick Aybar, who has produced several clutch hits in the Classic. Tejada is hitting .308 in five games with 13 at-bats. Ramirez, batting fifth between Edwin Encarnacion and Nelson Cruz, is batting .176, but two of his three hits have been homers.

• Dominican Republic hitters have outhomered the opposition by 7-2 in winning all six of their Classic games prior to Monday. Cano, Ramirez and Carlos Santana each have gone deep twice. Cano and Cruz lead the team with six RBIs each. Cano has half as many total bases (24) as the Dominican Republic's six opponents.