Dominican Republic Flexes Power in Thrilling Win Over Venezuela
In a matchup that had fans buzzing in Miami, Sandy Alcantara found himself in a unique spot, warming up in the visiting bullpen at loanDepot park. This rare scene unfolded as the Dominican Republic faced Venezuela in a World Baseball Classic showdown, reminiscent of Alcantara's 2023 start against the same opponent.
Despite a rocky performance from Alcantara, the Dominican lineup continued to flex its “plátano power,” smashing four home runs to bring their tournament total to 13. They're now just one shy of the record set by Mexico in 2009.
The atmosphere was electric with several Marlins players, including Esteury Ruiz and Eury Pérez, watching their ace take the mound. The Dominican fans were treated to a show right from the start. In the first inning, Juan Soto launched a towering two-run homer, igniting the crowd and setting the tone for the game.
However, Alcantara faced immediate pressure in the bottom of the first. After a single and a walk, Willson Contreras delivered an RBI single, narrowing the Dominican lead.
The Dominicans weren't done, though. Ketel Marte hit a solo shot in the third, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. followed with a two-run homer, extending the lead to 4-1. Alcantara, however, struggled in his final inning, allowing two runs on back-to-back doubles after walking Ronald Acuña Jr.
Alcantara's performance was reminiscent of his previous WBC outing, with a line of 3 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 2 BB, and 3 SO on 44 pitches. Dominican manager Albert Pujols praised Alcantara's effort, noting the early run support gave him some breathing room.
Postgame, Alcantara assured reporters of his commitment to the team, ready to pitch in any capacity needed to represent the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican offense didn't let up. Fernando Tatis Jr. added a three-run homer in the fourth, pushing the lead to 7-3.
Venezuela made a late push in the ninth, capitalizing on three walks to bring the tying run to the plate. A sacrifice fly and an error trimmed the lead to 7-5, but Salvador Pérez grounded into a double play to secure the win for the Dominicans.
With this victory, the Dominican Republic tops Pool D and will face South Korea in the quarterfinals. Venezuela, finishing as the runner-up, is set to take on defending champion Japan. The stage is set for more thrilling baseball action as the tournament heats up.