Italy’s Power Play: Pasquantino’s Triple‑Homer Wins World Baseball Classic

Pasquantino hit three home runs in a single game, a first for the World Baseball Classic. His blasts helped Italy defeat Mexico 9‑1 and secure a spot in the quarterfinals. The win also allowed the United States to advance as the second team from their group. Italy’s victory broke a streak of doubt for the U. S. team, which had lost to Italy 8‑6 the day before. Pasquantino started the tournament without a hit, but he turned things around with a homer in each of the second, sixth and eighth innings. Another Italian player, Jon Berti, also hit a home run early, giving the team an early lead. The Italians will face Puerto Rico in Houston on Saturday. Meanwhile, the U. S. team plays Canada that same day; Canada is making its first appearance in the World Baseball Classic’s later rounds after beating Cuba 7‑2.Mexico’s loss means it cannot qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The Mexican squad had finished third in the previous World Baseball Classic, losing to Japan in the semifinals. During Italy’s win, Pasquantino celebrated each homer with an espresso shot from the dugout machine. The game also featured a strong pitching performance from Aaron Nola, who allowed only four hits and struck out five over five scoreless innings. Mexico managed just one run in the seventh inning, despite loading the bases. The Dominican Republic finished unbeaten in Pool D with a 7‑5 win over Venezuela. Star hitters Fernando Tatis Jr. , Ketel Marte, Juan Soto and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. each homered, driving in all seven runs. Venezuela’s Maikel Garcia went 4‑for‑4, but the Dominican Republic still emerged victorious.