Cuba advances to the World Baseball Classic semifinals after defeating Australia 4-3 in a quarterfinal game at the Tokyo Dome. This is Cuba’s first time in the semifinals since losing to Japan in the 2006 final.
Cuba’s Strong Fifth Inning
Alfredo Despaigne hit a tiebreaking sacrifice fly and Yoelkis Guibert followed with a two-run single in the fifth inning to give Cuba a lead it would not relinquish. Australia had taken the lead in the second inning with a go-ahead RBI single by former Philadelphia Phillies prospect Rixon Wingrove, who would later hit a two-run homer in the sixth inning off Roenis Elías from the Chicago Cubs.
Elías and Cuba’s Pitching Trio Secure Victory
Elías, Moinelo, and Martinez combine for scoreless final innings in Cuba’s win over Australia, with Martinez striking out George on eighth pitch for final out. Miguel Romero, the second of five Cuban pitchers, allowed only one hit in 1 2/3 scoreless innings and was credited with the win.
Cuba’s Previous WBC Performances
Cuba had lost in the second round of the previous three World Baseball Classics and lost to Japan in the 2006 final. This year’s team has rebounded from a slow start, winning their third straight game in the tournament after losing their first two.
Australia’s Historic Run Ends
Despite the loss, Australia had an impressive showing in the tournament, advancing past the group stage for the first time. “Basically this trip is redefining Australian baseball back home and hopefully it changes the conversation,” said Darryl George.
Cuba’s Semifinals Opponent
Cuba will now face the winner of a quarterfinal between Venezuela and the second-place team from Group C: Canada, Colombia, Mexico, or the United States. The semifinal game will be held on Sunday at Marlins Park.
Moncada’s Impressive Performance
Yoán Moncada of the Chicago White Sox had an outstanding game, with two hits and two walks, bringing his tournament batting average to .421 with five RBIs. Moncada sparked Cuba’s third inning with a one-out double off Mitch Neunborn, who had walked Roel Santos leading off.
Despaigne’s Contribution
Alfredo Despaigne, who is hitting .412 with four RBIs, played a crucial role in Cuba’s victory. His sacrifice fly in the fifth inning gave Cuba the lead, and he is also the WBC career leader with seven home runs. Despaigne is a fan favorite in Japan after playing for the Pacific League’s Chiba Lotte Marines from 2014-2016 and Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks from 2017 through last season.
Cuba’s strong fifth inning and solid pitching performance secured a 4-3 victory over Australia and a spot in the World Baseball Classic semifinals. Cuba will now face the winner of a quarterfinal between Venezuela and the second-place team from Group C on Sunday at Marlins Park. The game promises to be an exciting matchup, and fans will be watching to see if Cuba can continue their impressive run in the tournament.
