In a showdown that promised fireworks, fans were treated to an unexpected pitchers' duel as Team USA edged out the Dominican Republic 2-1 in the World Baseball Classic, advancing to the next round.
The game began with a bang as Junior Caminero of the Dominican Republic launched a 401-foot homer, demonstrating his impressive ability to pull a pitch that seemed unhittable. This early lead, however, was short-lived.
Team USA's Paul Skenes delivered a solid start, keeping the Dominican bats largely in check. Meanwhile, Luis Severino was on the mound for the Dominican Republic, and he showcased his skills by getting out of a jam in the third inning. After Bobby Witt Jr. walked and Bryce Harper doubled, Severino struck out both Aaron Judge and Kyle Schwarber, maintaining the slim lead.
The tide turned in the fourth inning when Gunnar Henderson connected for a solo home run, leveling the score. Dominican manager Albert Pujols then brought in Gregory Soto, but Roman Anthony greeted him with a 421-foot blast, putting Team USA ahead 2-1.
Skenes wrapped up his outing after 4.1 innings, allowing just one run on six hits, showcasing control with no walks and two strikeouts. The fifth inning nearly saw Aaron Judge extend the lead, but Julio Rodríguez made a spectacular catch, robbing him of a potential home run.
The Dominican Republic threatened in the seventh inning. After Austin Wells doubled and Geraldo Perdomo singled, the stage was set with runners on second and third. But David Bednar rose to the occasion, striking out both Tatis and Ketel Marte to escape the jam.
As the game tightened, Team USA's bats fell silent after a Kyle Schwarber single in the fifth. It all came down to the ninth inning with Mason Miller on the mound.
Despite a tense moment with the tying run on third, Miller kept his composure. After walking Junior Caminero, a wild pitch and a groundout put the pressure on.
Miller battled through a full count against Geraldo Perdomo, ultimately getting a controversial strike call on a low slider to seal the victory.
While the game concluded on a disputed call, it was a classic contest that showcased the intensity and unpredictability of baseball. Fans now look forward to the next matchup, as Venezuela faces Italy with a spot in the final on the line.
Michael Lorenzen will take the mound for Italy, while Keider Montero pitches for Venezuela. Catch all the action tonight on FS1.