Boyer and Taboas: Leading Puerto Rico’s next generation at the U-18 Women's Softball World Cup
Sabrina Boyer delivered a walk-off single in the ninth inning to power Puerto Rico past Mexico, 8-7, in a crucial Group B matchup at the WBSC U-18 Women’s Softball World Cup. Along with Luna Taboas, Boyer is one of the most experienced players on the Puerto Rican roster, having played for the senior national team in 2025. Now, both are leading the U-18 squad.
Boyer decided the opener with a sharp line drive up the middle — a clutch hit that could prove decisive in Puerto Rico’s bid to reach the Super Round. “We had two outs, and I wanted something hard on a line,” she said after the game. “So I just tried to be on time, get my foot down early, and find something I could get on top of. And that first pitch was it.”
“Honestly, starting the tournament with a game like this, with so many new girls, it’s incredible,” added Taboas, who went 1-for-3 from the leadoff spot and scored twice. “It was a little difficult? Yes. But what really unites us is being Puerto Rican and our culture. What defined the game was the team that had more energy, that was engaged.”
Both Boyer and Taboas bring a wealth of international experience for U-18 players. Boyer has represented Puerto Rico at U-15, U-18, and senior levels, winning silver at the WBSC U-15 World Cup 2023. Taboas competed at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu with the senior national team, an experience that has cemented her role as captain.
“That role of leader comes naturally,” Taboas explained. “You gain a lot of maturity when you play with older girls. I’ve always been a leader for the U-18 team, and I learned so much from our senior leader, Karla Claudio, who played at the highest level for many years. I use everything I’ve learned to be the best captain I can for this team.”
Boyer echoed her teammate. “I’ve always considered myself a leader. I want everybody to be the best they can be — whether that’s pushing someone to give 100% that day or just letting them know I’ve got their back. That’s something I take pride in.”
For Taboas, competing at The World Games was unforgettable. “I always used to watch those players on TV because I’m not in college yet, and I’d think: ‘Wow, I’m on the same field as them.’ Honestly, it really opens your eyes and makes you see things differently,” she said with a smile.
Boyer highlighted a key lesson from her senior team experience: “One of the biggest things I’ve learned is that I’m not just playing for myself, but for a whole territory, for our island. This game is bigger than me.”
The victory gives Puerto Rico a strong start in their quest for the Super Round. Both leaders believe this young squad has what it takes.
“We have a lot of talent. We’re definitely one of the youngest teams here, but I trust my girls all the way,” Boyer said. “It’s about playing as a team and being there for each other. I think we can go very far in this tournament. I’m excited.”
Taboas summed it up with pride: “They’ll have to fight to beat us. They’ll have to battle. But I’m all in with us — with Puerto Rico, always.”