The 2023 World Baseball Classic scores are in, and the quarterfinals have just concluded, with some exciting results leading up to the tournament semifinals. The top eight teams in the world faced off against each other in the quarterfinals, with the winners advancing to the semifinals.
Team USA emerged victorious in their quarterfinal game against Venezuela, winning 8-3 at the Tokyo Dome in Japan. The Americans had an impressive performance, with strong pitching from starter Ben Sheets and timely hitting from sluggers such as Alex Rodriguez and David Ortiz.
In the other quarterfinals, Cuba defeated the Dominican Republic, Canada defeated Japan, and South Korea narrowly edged out Mexico in a close game that saw multiple lead changes.
After the quarterfinals, the WBC bracket has been finalized, and the semifinals have been set. On one side of the bracket, Cuba will face off against the United States, while on the other side, Canada will take on South Korea.
The United States and Cuba have a storied rivalry in international baseball, and their upcoming matchup in the WBC semifinals is sure to be a thrilling one. Both teams boast talented rosters, with the likes of Jose Abreu and Yoan Moncada representing Cuba and superstars such as Mike Trout and Clayton Kershaw leading the charge for Team USA.
Meanwhile, Canada and South Korea will also be an intriguing matchup, with the two teams featuring strong pitching staffs and hard-hitting lineups. Canada will be looking to build on their upset win over Japan, while South Korea will be aiming to continue their impressive run through the tournament.
The winners of the two semifinal games will advance to the championship game, which will be held at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. The World Baseball Classic has been growing in popularity since its inception in 2006, and the 2023 tournament has provided fans with some exciting moments and matchups.
As the tournament reaches its final stages, fans and players alike are eagerly anticipating the upcoming semis and championship game, where the best teams in the world will battle it out for the coveted WBC title.