USA and Dominican Republic Advance in World Baseball Classic, Ohtani Prepares for Regular Season

The United States and the Dominican Republic secured victories in the World Baseball Classic on Friday, March 14, 2026, advancing in the tournament. Meanwhile, Shohei Ohtani continues to build up his pitching stamina as Japan prepares for its quarterfinal matchup.

USA Defeats Canada to Reach Semifinals

Team USA defeated Canada 5-3 at Daikin Park in Houston, Texas, on Friday night, earning a spot in the World Baseball Classic semifinals . Will Smith, who shares catching duties with Cal Raleigh, did not play in the game. Clayton Kershaw did not pitch in the first five games and is expected to be replaced on the roster by Jeff Hoffman for the next round.

Dominican Republic Shut Out Korea

The Dominican Republic dominated Korea with a 10-0 shutout victory. Former Dodgers pitcher Hyun-jin Ryu’s start was cut short after only five outs, allowing three hits and three runs in the second inning. The Dominican Republic extended their lead with a four-run third inning and finished the game with a three-run home run by Austin Wells in the seventh, invoking the mercy rule .

Japan’s Ohtani Builds Pitching Strength

Shohei Ohtani will not pitch in the World Baseball Classic but is actively preparing for the regular season. He pitched four simulated innings on Thursday in Miami to build up his arm strength . Japan will face Venezuela in their quarterfinal matchup on Saturday night, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto starting on the mound and Ohtani serving as the designated hitter.

Upcoming Semifinal Matchup

Team USA will face the Dominican Republic in the first WBC semifinal on Sunday night at loanDepot Park in Miami .

Other Tournament Results

Earlier in the day, Chinese Taipei defeated Czechia 14-0, and Team USA defeated Brazil 15-5 . The Dominican Republic also secured a 12-3 win against Nicaragua .