USA Faces Venezuela in World Baseball Classic Final After Dramatic Semifinal Win
By Sam Blum and Johnny Flores Jr.
Team USA advanced to the championship game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic, narrowly defeating the Dominican Republic 2-1 in a tense semifinal matchup on Sunday night at loanDepot park. The U.S. Will face Venezuela on Tuesday night (8 p.m. ET, FOX) for the title.
A Hard-Fought Victory Against a Powerful Dominican Republic
The game lived up to the hype, featuring many of baseball’s biggest names. Team USA outlasted a strong Dominican Republic team, securing their third consecutive appearance in the World Baseball Classic finals.
The Dominican Republic, managed by Albert Pujols, had dominated pool play, outscoring opponents 41-10 and then earning a 10-0 run-rule victory over Korea in the quarterfinals.
Key Moments in the Semifinal Clash
Solo home runs from Gunnar Henderson and Roman Anthony provided the scoring for Team USA. Paul Skenes pitched 4 1/3 innings, allowing a solo home run among six hits with no walks and two strikeouts.
The U.S. Defense and bullpen were crucial in protecting the lead against a potent Dominican lineup.
“That,” said U.S. Skipper Mark DeRosa, “was high-level baseball at its finest.”
Mark DeRosa
Skenes acknowledged the challenge posed by the Dominican hitters, stating, “The D.R. Is the toughest lineup I’ve ever faced, for sure,”
and adding, “I think they would probably say the same thing about facing us.”
Venezuela’s Unexpected Run
While Samurai Japan dominated their group and the Dominican Republic proved their strength, Venezuela emerged as a surprising contender. They upset Japan, defeated Italy, and are now one win away from a historic championship.
“We want to give that joy to the people …We would be contributing to the mental health, life of our people in Venezuela.”
Omar Lopez
Looking Ahead to the Final
For Team USA, this is an opportunity to avenge their previous heartbreak. The game will be played on U.S. Soil, but a strong Venezuelan contingent is expected to be in attendance.
The matchup was not the one initially anticipated, but it promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
FAQ
- Who is playing in the World Baseball Classic final?
- When is the final game?
- Where is the final game being played?
USA and Venezuela.
Tuesday night at 8 p.m. ET on FOX.
loanDepot park.
The 2026 World Baseball Classic is heading for a dramatic finish, with Team USA and Venezuela poised to deliver a championship game for the ages.