Canada Advances in World Baseball Classic After Upset Victory Over Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Canada secured a crucial 3-2 victory over host Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic on Tuesday night, bolstering their chances of reaching the quarterfinals for the first time in team history. The win improves Canada’s record to 2-1 in Group A, while Puerto Rico falls to 3-1.

Key to the Victory: Walks and Strong Pitching

Canada capitalized on two bases-loaded walks in the third inning to take a 2-1 lead. The team then relied on a strong pitching performance and solid defense to hold off Puerto Rico.

Game Highlights

Puerto Rico opened the scoring in the first inning after Canadian starting pitcher Jordan Balazovic issued two consecutive walks. Nolan Arenado then hit a run-scoring single to center field, giving Puerto Rico a 1-0 advantage. ESPN Box Score

Canada responded in the third inning. Tyler O’Neill was walked with the bases loaded, allowing Denzel Clarke to score and tie the game. Another walk, this time to Tyler Black, brought Édouard Julien home, giving Canada a 2-1 lead.

In the fourth inning, Abraham Toro’s single to right field allowed Owen Caissie to score, extending Canada’s lead to 3-1. Caissie finished the game with a .545 batting average in three games. USA Today

Puerto Rico narrowed the gap in the bottom of the fourth when Martín Maldonado grounded out to second base, scoring Arenado.

Pitching Dominance

Jordan Balazovic pitched three innings for Canada, allowing only one hit and earning the win. He struck out four batters and walked three. Logan Allen followed with three innings, allowing four hits and one run, with two strikeouts. Brock Dykxhoorn closed out the game with three scoreless innings, earning the save. The Athletic

What’s Next?

Canada (2-1) will face Cuba (2-1) on Wednesday in a pivotal match. A victory for Canada would not only secure their advancement to the quarterfinals but as well clinch first place in Group A. Puerto Rico (3-1) will also continue play in the tournament. MLB.com