Team USA is moving forward in the World Baseball Classic, and they have Aaron Nola, Vinnie Pasquantino, and a little espresso magic to thank for it.
Italy pulled off a stunning 9-1 victory over Mexico, despite Mexico being the favorites. Mexico's pitching faltered, unable to counter Italy's lineup, with Nola leading the charge.
Nola, looking to rebound from a tough 2025 season, delivered five shutout innings, allowing just four hits while striking out five and walking one. With 69 pitches thrown-45 for strikes-he reached a top speed of 94.5 mph, a mark he rarely hit last year.
This performance marks Nola's third impressive outing this year. Across 10 innings this spring, between his starts for the Phillies and Italy, he’s allowed just one earned run and struck out 11.
Fans had multiple reasons to tune in. A vintage performance from Nola was crucial for Italy, while a less stellar showing might have helped Mexico reach the five-run threshold, which Team USA needed for a tiebreaker.
The game didn’t disappoint, with Italy dominating thanks to Pasquantino's three homers, timely hits, and an RBI bunt from Phillies prospect Dante Nori. Italy’s comfortable lead ensured there were no last-minute nail-biters.
With this win, Team USA advances to face Canada in the quarterfinals. After recent victories over Canada in Olympic hockey, it's time to extend that success to the baseball diamond.
Props to the Italian squad, regardless of their actual heritage. Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and Brad Keller might want to reward Nola with some cold Yuenglings for his stellar performance.