Dominican Republic Dominates South Korea, Advances to WBC Semifinals

MIAMI – The Dominican Republic secured a decisive 10-0 victory over South Korea in the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Baseball Classic on Friday, advancing to the semifinals. The game was called in the seventh inning due to the tournament’s mercy rule.

Sanchez Shuts Down Korean Offense

Dominican Republic starter Cristopher Sánchez delivered a stellar performance, pitching five shutout innings and allowing only two hits. Sánchez struck out eight batters and induced six groundouts, effectively stifling the Korean lineup. The Korea Times reported that Sánchez relied on a “devastating sinker-changeup mix” to control the game.

Dominican Offense Explodes

The Dominican Republic offense provided ample support, jumping to a 7-0 lead after three innings. Austin Wells sealed the victory with a three-run home run in the bottom of the seventh, triggering the mercy rule. Key contributors included Fernando Tatis Jr., who recorded two RBIs and Manny Machado and Junior Caminero, each with two hits and two runs scored.

Korea Struggles at the Plate

Korean hitters managed only two hits throughout the game. Jahmai Jones recorded Korea’s first hit in the fourth inning, but a double play quickly erased the momentum. A potential hit by Lee Jung-hoo was initially called safe but remained overturned after a review, as Korea had already used its challenge for the game.

Mercy Rule in Effect

The World Baseball Classic rules allow for a game to finish early if a team takes a 15-run lead after five innings or a 10-run lead after seven innings. The Dominican Republic’s 10-run lead after seven innings brought the game to a close. The Athletic noted the run-rule guidelines were in place for this round.

Looking Ahead

The Dominican Republic will now face either Canada or the United States in the semifinals. The outcome of the Canada vs. USA game will determine their next opponent.