Venezuela Stuns Japan, Advances to World Baseball Classic Semifinals
MIAMI – In a stunning upset at loanDepot park on Saturday, Venezuela defeated defending champions Japan 8-5, securing their place in the semifinals of the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The victory marks Venezuela’s first appearance in the tournament’s final four since 2009 and guarantees them a spot in the six-nation field for the 2028 Olympic baseball tournament, joining the United States and the Dominican Republic.
The improbable run continues for Venezuela, who will now face a surprising Italian squad – also undefeated in the tournament – on Monday, March 16th, at loanDepot park. Italy earned their semifinal berth with an 8-6 victory over Puerto Rico, completing the semifinal matchups. The park will also host both semifinal games and the tournament final.
A Comeback Fueled by Power
Venezuela fell behind early, but rallied with a potent offensive display. Trailing by three runs, they chipped away at the lead before Wilyer Abreu delivered the decisive blow – a three-run home run in the sixth inning that put Venezuela ahead 7-5. The home run, a 409-foot blast to right field, was Abreu’s first of the tournament and ignited the Venezuelan dugout.
The comeback began earlier in the inning with a two-run home run by Maikel García, sparking the Venezuelan offense. Ezequiel Tovar extended the lead to 8-5 in the eighth inning, scoring after a throwing error by Atsuki Taneichi.
Japan’s Winning Streak Ends
Shohei Ohtani, the reigning MVP of the 2023 World Baseball Classic, launched his third home run of the tournament in the first inning, giving Japan an early advantage. However, the Japanese offense couldn’t sustain the momentum against a resilient Venezuelan pitching staff. Ohtani’s early lead wasn’t enough to overcome Venezuela’s late-game surge. Japan’s 11-game winning streak in the World Baseball Classic was snapped with the loss.
Key to Venezuela’s Victory: Bullpen Brilliance
Venezuela’s starting pitcher, Ranger Suárez, struggled, allowing five runs in just 2.2 innings. However, the Venezuelan bullpen stepped up in a major way. Reliever Enmanuel De Jesús was particularly crucial, pitching 2.1 scoreless innings and effectively shutting down Japan’s attempts to regain the lead. His performance bought time for the Venezuelan offense to complete the comeback. Without De Jesús’s steady hand, the outcome could have been very different.
The victory is a testament to Venezuela’s aggressive base running and overall offensive power. They successfully contained the Japanese offense, which had been a force throughout the tournament.
Semifinal Matchups Set
The stage is now set for the semifinals. On Sunday, March 15th, the United States (4-1) will face the Dominican Republic (5-0) in what is being billed as a “final before the final.” Then, on Monday, March 16th, Venezuela (4-1) will take on the undefeated Italy (5-0) at loanDepot park in Miami. Both semifinal games, as well as the championship game, will be played at the same venue.
This World Baseball Classic has already delivered its share of surprises, and with two compelling semifinal matchups on the horizon, the excitement is sure to continue. The tournament is showcasing the global growth of baseball and the rising competitiveness of nations beyond the traditional powerhouses.
What’s Next: All eyes now turn to Sunday’s semifinal clash between the United States and the Dominican Republic. The winner will advance to the championship game, scheduled for March 18th at loanDepot park.
What do you think of Venezuela’s stunning victory? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
