The World Baseball Classic defending champions, Team DR edged past Venezuela 3-0 to keep hopes high of making it to the semi-finals.
On Thursday, 16 March 2017 in San Diego, California, stellar pitching and home runs by Gregory Polanco and Nelson Cruz, the Dominican Republic secured the victory over Venezuela in the second round of the World Baseball Classic at Petco Park.
MLB reported that three runs — including the two solo homers from Polanco and Cruz — were all the Dominican Republic would need, as starter Edinson Volquez and a dominant relief unit combined to toss an eight-hit shutout. Every Dominican reliever recorded at least one strikeout.
The Dominican Republic was upset by Puerto Rico on Tuesday for its first loss in the Classic since 2009. Venezuela was unable to hold a late lead against Team USA on Wednesday.
Team USA and Puerto Rico are leading 1-0 in Group F and will play each other on the evening of Friday, 17 March 2017.
The top two teams advance to playoffs of the Championship Round at Dodger Stadium from 20-22 March.
Read more:
MLB
World Baseball Classic standings
WBC Schedule
For information on upcoming events:
DR1 Calendar
17 March 2017
