Taiwan and the US remained undefeated to lead the tables in their respective groups and are likely to advance to the playoff round at the WBSC U12 Baseball World Cup in Tainan.
After a delayed start due to heavy rain at Tainan Municipal Baseball Stadium, Taiwan’s under-12 squad subjugated Russia 14-0 in just five innings, with the game ending early due to the mercy rule.
In other Group A action yesterday, Venezuela edged South Korea 4-3 in a come-from-behind victory, while Cuba defeated Brazil 4-1.
The dramatic contest between Venezuela and South Korea went all the way to the last at-bat.
After scoring three quick runs in the first frame, South Korea’s under-12 team led 3-2 heading into the bottom of the sixth inning, the final at-bat chance. Venezuela came alive with three hits to score two runs, with center fielder Barroso Vasquez delivering an RBI single for the win.
Brazil got an early run in the first inning, but Cuba’s “Red Lightning” managed to get three runs one inning later, followed by another run in the third to secure the game. Cuba pitchers Felix Arronde and Jonathan Barrios then shut down Brazil to ensure the outcome.
In Group B, Japan were the big winners, demolishing France 21-0, and the US proved too much with a 13-1 drubbing of Australia. Meanwhile, in a Latin American matchup, Nicaragua shot past Mexico 7-4.
Japan’s pitching duo of Asagiro Shiina and Rintaro Imamura combined for the no-hitter in a shortened five-inning game against France. Japan’s batters pummeled three pitchers over 17 hits and six walks to pile on 21 runs.
The US’ under-12 squad exploded for seven runs in the third frame against Australia, adding one in the fourth and five more in the sixth on their way to a 13-1 victory.
FINAL SIX
The top three teams from Groups A and B are to proceed into the Final Six playoffs, which are to be determined by the final round-robin games today.
Japan have to defeat Mexico today to advance, while in the other crucial matchup, South Korea need a win against Cuba to have a chance of proceeding to the playoff round.
Hosts Taiwan are scheduled to take on Venezuela in tonight’s game.
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