A tense, star-studded matchup between two baseball powerhouses delivered exactly the kind of drama the World Baseball Classic is known for.
Team USA edged the Dominican Republic 2–1 in the tournament’s semifinal round in Miami, securing a spot in the championship game for the third consecutive edition of the global event.
The Dominican Republic struck first when Junior Caminero launched a solo home run in the second inning, giving his team an early lead and energizing a crowd that was evenly split between the two baseball-loving nations. The advantage did not last long.
In the fourth inning, the United States turned the game around with two swings of the bat. Gunnar Henderson blasted a solo home run to tie the score, and moments later Roman Anthony followed with another long drive that cleared the wall, pushing the Americans ahead 2–1.
That slim margin proved enough thanks to a disciplined pitching effort. Starter Paul Skenes navigated through traffic and limited the Dominican lineup to one run over just more than four innings. After his departure, a series of relievers took over and steadily shut down one of the tournament’s most dangerous offenses.
Defensive plays also played a crucial role. Both teams showcased elite athleticism and awareness in the field, turning potential rallies into outs and keeping the score locked in a one-run game deep into the night.
The drama peaked in the ninth inning. With the Dominican Republic threatening and the tying run standing on third base, shortstop Geraldo Perdomo battled closer Mason Miller to a full count. Miller delivered a slider that appeared to dip below the strike zone, but it was ruled a strike by the home plate umpire.
The call ended the game instantly.
American players erupted in celebration while Dominican players expressed frustration at the controversial finish. Fernando Tatis Jr., one of the Dominican Republic’s most dangerous hitters during the tournament, stood in the on-deck circle as the final call was made.
Despite the contentious ending, the contest lived up to its billing as a showdown between two loaded rosters filled with All-Stars and rising stars.
With the win, the United States moves on to the championship game, where it will face the winner of the other semifinal between Venezuela and Italy. The victory also reinforces Team USA’s position as one of the dominant forces in the modern era of the World Baseball Classic.