Panama Secures First WBC Win with Jamie Barria on the Mound

Former professional baseball player Jamie Barria, who pitched for the Hanwha Eagles, led Panama to its first victory in the preliminary round of the World Baseball Classic (WBC). Panama defeated Canada 4-3 on March 9th at Hiram Bison Stadium in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Barria’s Performance

Barria started the game, allowing 5 hits, 1 walk, and 2 runs over 3⅔ innings. He pitched 20 games for the Hanwha Eagles in 2024, recording 6 wins, 7 losses, and an ERA of 5.15.

Game Highlights

Canada took an early lead in the second inning with a single by Otto Lopez and a double by Abraham Toro. Panama tied the game 1-1 in the fourth inning with a timely hit from Luis Castillo. Canada regained the lead 2-1 in the bottom of the fourth, but Panama responded in the sixth inning, scoring two runs with timely hits from Miguel Amaya, Ruben Tejada, and Enrique Bradfield Jr., to take a 4-2 lead.

Canada added a run in the eighth inning, but Panama held on for the 4-3 victory.

Key Players

Enrique Bradfield Jr. Led Panama with a three-hit game. Ruben Tejada contributed with one hit and two RBIs, and Christian Betancourt, formerly of NC, also had multiple hits.

Jameson Tyon started for Canada, pitching 3⅔ innings and allowing 2 hits, 2 walks, and 1 run. Bo Naylor and Owen Casey each had two hits for Canada.

Other WBC Results

In other WBC action on March 9th, Mexico defeated Brazil 16-0, and Israel defeated Nicaragua 5-0.