World Baseball Classic controversy erupts as Team USA defeats Dominican Republic
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The USA team narrowly defeated the Dominican Republic 2-1 on Sunday night to advance to the World Baseball Classic (WBC) final.
But the final pitch came under fire as the U.S. closer Mason Miller struck out Dominican Republic shortstop Geraldo Perdomo. Juan Soto also struck out in the eighth inning, holding off a similar pitch from David Bednar. Soto’s strike eliminated the Dominican Republic’s chance to tie the game, while Perdomo’s strike ended the game.
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Dominican Republic’s Geraldo Perdomo reacts after striking out in the bottom of the ninth inning of the World Baseball Classic semifinal game against the United States on Sunday, March 15, 2026, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)
This call created controversy on social media.
FOX Sports broadcasters Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz and Derek Jeter also contributed.
“It’s a ball that’s about ten inches down, it’s a very close shot. But that’s Cory Blaser’s hot spot and he’s down there. Of course, he lived according to the scouting report,” Rodriguez said. “You hate to end a game this big, with these kinds of results, on a no-hit pitch.”
Dominican Republic Juan Soto bats in the eighth inning of the World Baseball Classic semifinal game against the United States on Sunday, March 15, 2026, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
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Ortiz said that if the umpire was throwing 100 miles per hour on infield strikes, then Miller’s throw from downfield couldn’t have been a strike.
“I’m pretty sure they’ll introduce the challenge system for the next WBC,” Jeter said. “You hate to end a game that way. But you give credit to the USA. Not only did they pitch well, they hit two home runs. They played great defense – whether it was Aaron (Umpire) throwing to third base or Bobhy Witt with the plays he made – knocking the ball down and saving a run early. Great pitching, great defense, USA deserves to go to the finals.”
U.S. pitcher Mason Miller and catcher Will Smith celebrate in the bottom of the ninth inning during the World Baseball Classic semifinal game against the Dominican Republic on Sunday, March 15, 2026, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)
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The USA team will wait for the winner of Venezuela and Italy.
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