Fall/Winter Roundup: Rivera shines for Santurce

While the free agent machinations dominated baseball news over the weekend, the Caribbean Winter Leagues continued their play. They reached the All-Star game in Puerto Rico, while some old friends popped up in the Nicaraguan Winter League. This week's update covers the period from December 2 through 8. Please also visit our SoxProspects.com Fall/Winter page, updated daily. 

----

Nobody from the organization was selected to the circuit's All-Star game on Sunday, but all four players did see game action this week. Eduardo Rivera (pictured) turned in a strong start for Santurce on Friday, allowing just one run on two hits across five innings against Mayaguez, striking out nine against two walks. He departed with a 4-1 lead that the bullpen could not hold, resulting in a no decision. Brian Van Belle got the start on Monday for Caguas, taking the loss with six runs on nine hits in three innings. He pitched out of the bullpen Friday, allowing one run in two innings. Mickey Gasper (Caguas) was 1 for 4 in his only appearance of the week, while Juan Montero was 2 for 4 with a strikeout on Saturday for Ponce.

-----

Enmanuel Valdez was the only player in action in the Dominican this week. The infielder appeared in four games for Estrellas, making three starts. He was 1 for 13 with three walks (one intentional), bringing his line to .175/.274/.272 on the season. Bryan Gonzalez (Escogido) did not appear in a game.

-----

No current Red Sox players are playing in Nicaragua, but readers may be interested in the All-Star rosters: former outfielders Rusney Castillo and Gilberto Jimenez were recognized. They were managed by Luis Sumoza (pictured), who played in the system from 2005 through 2008 and was dealt to Atlanta in the deal that brought Mark Kotsay to Boston.