Pasquantino’s Historic Performance Propels Italy to World Baseball Classic Quarterfinals

HOUSTON – Vinnie Pasquantino etched his name into the history books of the World Baseball Classic (WBC) on Wednesday night, becoming the first player to hit three home runs in a single game as Italy defeated Mexico 9-1. The victory secured Italy’s place in the quarterfinals and similarly ensured a spot for the United States in the knockout stage.

Italy Dominates Mexico

Pasquantino, who had struggled at the plate prior to Wednesday’s game, broke his 0-for-12 slump in dramatic fashion. He launched home runs leading off the second, sixth, and eighth innings, igniting the Italian offense. Jon Berti also contributed a home run for Italy, building an early lead.

“It was nice to get involved in the action from the other side,” Pasquantino said. “It’s nice to get kissed on my cheeks.”

Italy finished the group stage with a perfect 4-0 record, a feat unprecedented for a European team in the WBC. The team celebrated each home run with a shot of espresso from the dugout machine, a fitting tradition for the Italian squad.

Quarterfinal Matchups Set

Italy’s quarterfinal opponent will be Puerto Rico on Saturday in Houston. The United States will face Canada on Sunday, after Canada advanced from the first round for the first time.

Canada Reaches Quarterfinals for the First Time

Canada secured its first-ever trip to the WBC quarterfinals with a 7-2 victory over Cuba in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Abraham Toro hit a home run, and Otto López added a two-run single to lead the Canadians. Brothers Bo and Josh Naylor also drove in runs, while James Paxton struck out six batters in 2 2/3 scoreless innings. Canada finished Group A with a 3-1 record, topping host Puerto Rico.

Dominican Republic Remains Undefeated

The Dominican Republic completed an undefeated run through Group D with a dominant performance against Venezuela. Fernando Tatis Jr., Ketel Marte, Juan Soto, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. All hit home runs in the victory. The Dominican Republic (4-0) will face South Korea in the quarterfinals on Friday, while Venezuela (3-1) will seize on Japan, led by Shohei Ohtani, on Saturday.

Mexico Eliminated from Olympic Contention

Mexico’s defeat eliminated them from contention for a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The team had finished third in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, losing to Japan in the semifinals.