World Baseball Classic 2026: Korea, Dominican Republic, and Venezuela Secure Quarterfinal Spots as USA Edges Mexico
Day 5 of the 2026 World Baseball Classic saw significant developments as Korea, the Dominican Republic, and Venezuela secured their places in the quarterfinals. The action unfolded at the Tokyo Dome and other venues, showcasing intense competition among the participating teams.
Korea Triumphs Over Australia
Korea opened the day with a commanding performance against Australia, winning 7-2. Bo Gyeong Moon made headlines by hitting a 430-foot home run, followed by an RBI double and an RBI single, propelling Korea to an early 5-0 lead. This victory marked Korea’s first advancement to the quarterfinals since 2009.
Despite finishing with a 2-2 record in Pool C alongside Australia and Chinese Taipei, Korea advanced due to a run-quotient tiebreaker. Australia needed either a win or to lose by fewer than four runs to progress. Korea’s success in this match was crucial, as they joined Japan, led by Shohei Ohtani, in the next stage of the tournament.
USA Holds Off Mexico
In another Pool B matchup, the United States faced Mexico, emerging with a 5-3 victory. The U.S. took control with a five-run third inning but had to withstand a late surge from Mexico. Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ Cy Young winner, delivered a stellar performance, allowing just one hit and striking out seven in four innings.
Despite Jarren Duran’s two late home runs for Mexico, the U.S. bullpen held firm, with Garrett Whitlock securing the win after allowing a leadoff hit in the ninth but preventing further scoring. The U.S. remains in a strong position, leading Pool B with one game left against Italy, although a 3-0 start does not guarantee advancement.
Puerto Rico Advances with Win Over Cuba
Puerto Rico secured its spot in the quarterfinals with a 4-1 victory against Cuba. MartÃn Maldonado’s three-run double in the second inning set the tone for the match, ensuring Puerto Rico finished group play with a perfect 3-0 record. Cuba, now facing elimination, must defeat Canada in their next game to keep their hopes alive.
Venezuela Dominates Nicaragua
Venezuela continued its unbeaten streak, defeating Nicaragua 4-0. Ronald Acuña Jr. was a standout performer, contributing a solo home run, an RBI single, and scoring on a sacrifice fly. Venezuela’s victory improved their record to 3-0, while Nicaragua’s tournament ended with an 0-4 record.
Dominican Republic Secures Quarterfinal Spot
The Dominican Republic showcased its strength with a decisive 10-1 win over Israel. Fernando Tatis Jr. made history by hitting the country’s first grand slam in World Baseball Classic history during the second inning. Brayan Bello, the starting pitcher, struck out seven batters in five innings, leading the Dominican Republic to a 3-0 record and securing a quarterfinal berth.
Colombia Claims First Win Against Panama
In a tightly contested match, Colombia edged out Panama 4-3, marking their first victory of the tournament. The game featured a strong sixth inning for Colombia, with key RBIs from Jordan Diaz, Reynaldo Rodriguez, and Daniel Vellojin. Despite Panama’s efforts, including a solo home run from José Caballero, they could not overcome Colombia’s lead.
Great Britain Ends Tournament on High Note
Great Britain concluded its World Baseball Classic campaign with an emphatic 8-1 victory over Brazil. Jazz Chisholm Jr. led the charge with two hits and three RBIs. The win ensured Great Britain a place in the next World Baseball Classic, despite both teams being eliminated from quarterfinal contention prior to the match.
As reported by sports.yahoo.com.
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Published on 2026-03-10 07:32:00 • By Editorial Desk
