Juan Soto Leads Dominican Republic to Victory in WBC Tune-Up

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – New York Mets star Juan Soto electrified a crowd of over 10,000 fans at Estadio Quisqueya on Tuesday night, launching a two-run home run that propelled the Dominican Republic to a 12-4 victory over the Detroit Tigers in a World Baseball Classic tune-up game.^[1][4]

Soto’s Stellar Performance

Soto’s 431-foot home run to right field broke a 4-4 tie in the bottom of the fourth inning.^[1][4] The blast, which came off his bat with a velocity of 107.3 mph, ignited a jubilant atmosphere in the stadium.^[1] Soto celebrated by pointing to the crowd as he rounded first base and clapping his hands above his head. He then shared a special handshake and a dance with teammate Fernando Tatis Jr. After crossing home plate.^[1]

The Mets outfielder finished the night 2-for-4 with an RBI single in addition to his home run.^[1]

Dominican Republic Offensive Onslaught

Soto’s home run was just the beginning of a powerful offensive display by the Dominican Republic team. Manny Machado and Junior Caminero followed with back-to-back home runs later in the fourth inning, extending the lead.^[1][2]

Game Details and Upcoming Schedule

The Dominican Republic defeated the Detroit Tigers 12-4, marking the first time the Dominican Republic’s national team had faced a Major League Baseball organization.^[1] More than 10,000 fans attended the game.^[1]

The Dominican Republic will begin their World Baseball Classic campaign on Thursday, March 5, 2026, with a matchup against Venezuela.^[2]

Key Players

• Juan Soto: New York Mets outfielder and a key player for the Dominican Republic.
• Manny Machado: Veteran third baseman and leader for the Dominican Republic national team.
• Junior Caminero: Rising star for the Tampa Bay Rays, making his WBC debut for the Dominican Republic.

Mets pitcher Huascar Brazoban also contributed to the victory, striking out two batters in a scoreless ninth inning.^[4]

^[1] Juan Soto electrifies Dominican Republic crowd with 431-foot homer – NY Post

^[2] Dominican Republic Stars Crush Homers in WBC Tuneup vs. Tigers – National Today

^[4] Juan Soto Shines with 431-Foot Homer as Dominican Republic Tops Tigers – 21sports.com