Dominican Republic Dominates Venezuela in World Baseball Classic Thriller
MIAMI – The Dominican Republic secured first place in Pool D of the 2026 World Baseball Classic with a decisive 7-5 victory over Venezuela at loanDepot park on Wednesday night. The game, witnessed by a crowd of 36,230 passionate fans, was a showcase of power hitting and dramatic late-game action.
A Home Run Barrage
The Dominican Republic’s lineup lived up to its reputation, launching four home runs – one each from Juan Soto, Ketel Marte, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Fernando Tatis Jr. This offensive explosion brought their tournament total to a record-breaking 13 home runs through the first four games, surpassing any previous team in World Baseball Classic history.
Venezuela Fights Back, Falls Short
Venezuela mounted a spirited rally in the ninth inning, scoring twice and bringing the potential winning run to the plate with team captain Salvador Perez. However, Dominican pitcher Elvis Alvarado induced a game-ending double play, fielded expertly by Manny Machado at third base, to secure the win.
A Long-Standing Rivalry Continues
The Dominican Republic’s win over Venezuela continues a dominant trend in their World Baseball Classic matchups. They have now won five of their six encounters in the tournament, with Venezuela’s only victory coming in 2023. The rivalry, dating back to the inaugural 2006 tournament, features current managers and coaches who were once stars themselves – Albert Pujols (Dominican Republic manager) and Miguel Cabrera (Venezuela coach) both played in that first Classic.
Quarterfinal Matchups Set
The Dominican Republic will advance to face Korea, the runner-up from Group C, in the quarterfinals on Friday at 6:30 p.m. ET (FS2). Venezuela will face the defending World Baseball Classic champions, Japan, the winner of Group C, on Saturday at 9 p.m. ET (FOX).
Legends in Attendance
The game drew a significant crowd of baseball legends, including Hall of Famers David Ortiz and Adrián Beltré, as well as former MLB stars like José Bautista, Edwin Encarnación, and José Reyes, all witnessing the next generation of Dominican talent shine.
Did You Know?
Manny Machado’s defensive prowess has been a standout feature of the Dominican Republic’s performance throughout the tournament, consistently making crucial plays at third base.
FAQ
Q: Where was the game played?
A: loanDepot park in Miami.
Q: How many home runs did the Dominican Republic hit in the game?
A: Four.
Q: Who is the manager of the Dominican Republic team?
A: Albert Pujols.
Q: What is the Dominican Republic’s record against Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic?
A: 5-1.
Q: When are the quarterfinals games for the Dominican Republic and Venezuela?
A: The Dominican Republic plays Korea on Friday at 6:30 p.m. ET, and Venezuela plays Japan on Saturday at 9 p.m. ET.
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