Italy Upsets Puerto Rico, Reaches World Baseball Classic Semifinals
HOUSTON – Italy continued its improbable run in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, defeating Puerto Rico 8-6 in a quarterfinal matchup at Daikin Park on March 14th. This victory marks Italy’s first-ever appearance in the WBC semifinals.
How Italy Secured the Win
Italy jumped to an early lead, scoring four runs in the first inning and chasing Puerto Rico’s starting pitcher, Seth Lugo, before he could record two outs Sporting News. They extended their advantage to 8-2 with another four runs in the fourth inning, highlighted by two-run doubles from Andrew Fischer and J.J. D’Orazio Sporting News.
Despite a late rally by Puerto Rico in the eighth inning, where they scored four runs, Italy’s bullpen held on to secure the win. Greg Weissert was crucial in closing out the game, inducing a key groundout from Nolan Arenado with the tying run on base and pitching a scoreless ninth inning USA Today, Sporting News.
Key Moments and Performances
- Early Offensive Burst: Italy’s four-run first inning set the tone for the game.
- Fischer and D’Orazio: Both players delivered crucial two-run doubles in the fourth inning Sporting News.
- DeLucia’s Solid Start: Dylan DeLucia pitched four scoreless innings, helping Italy maintain its lead USA Today.
- Weissert Closes It Out: Greg Weissert secured the save, shutting down Puerto Rico’s late-game comeback attempt USA Today.
What’s Next for Italy?
Italy will advance to the WBC semifinals in Miami on March 16th, where they will face the winner of the quarterfinal matchup between Japan and Venezuela USA Today. They will be the underdogs, but their surprising run has already captivated fans in Italy and around the world MLB.com.
Manager Cervelli on Italy’s Success
Manager Francisco Cervelli noted the excitement in Italy, stating, “I heard that after the last out, the people there were screaming in Italian, and it was amazing,” MLB.com. He envisions a future where baseball gains a stronger foothold in Italian athletics.