MIAMI – The Dominican Republic is one step closer to World Baseball Classic glory, fueled by a record-breaking power display and clutch pitching in a 15-14 victory over the United States in the tournament semifinals on Sunday. Junior Caminero’s second-inning solo home run not only gave the Dominican Republic the lead but also established a new WBC record for most home runs in a single tournament, surpassing Mexico’s previous mark of 14 set in 2009. This offensive explosion, combined with a dominant performance from starter Luis Severino, propelled the Dominican Republic into Tuesday’s championship game.
The game at loanDepot park quickly became a showcase of power hitting. Caminero, the 22-year-old Tampa Bay Rays third baseman, launched an 84.4 mph sweeper from Paul Skenes – last season’s National League Cy Young Award winner – over the left-field fence, a 401-foot blast with a 25-degree launch angle and an exit velocity of 105.6 mph, according to data from the game. This marked the Dominican Republic’s 15th home run of the tournament, a testament to their aggressive offensive approach. MLB.com reports that the team has become renowned for its celebratory atmosphere after each home run.
Severino, formerly an ace with the New York Yankees, proved equally impactful on the mound. Facing a dangerous United States lineup with runners on second and third and one out in the third inning, he struck out both Aaron Judge and Kyle Schwarber, two of the American League’s most potent hitters. Severino’s ability to neutralize Judge, considered one of baseball’s strongest hitters alongside Shohei Ohtani, was a pivotal moment in the game. He used a perfectly placed 87.1 mph sweeper to get Judge looking, and followed it up with an 88.3 mph sweeper to retire Schwarber.
Dominican Republic’s Offensive Firepower
Caminero’s performance continues a breakout season for the young slugger. In 2023, his first full season in the major leagues, he hit .264 with 45 home runs and 110 RBIs in 154 games. He also showcased his clutch hitting in the quarterfinals against Korea, recording two hits, one RBI, and two runs scored, including a timely hit against Ryu Hyun-jin that opened the scoring in the Dominican Republic’s 10-0 victory. Baseball-Reference.com details his rapid ascent in the minor leagues before his major league debut.
United States Responds, But Falls Short
The United States didn’t travel down without a fight. In the bottom of the third inning, a quick rally put runners on second and third, but Severino’s composure prevented further damage. Later, in the top of the fourth, Gunner Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles tied the game with a solo home run off Severino, connecting on a 94.6 mph cutter after a nine-pitch battle. However, the Dominican Republic’s offense continued to apply pressure, and their pitching staff held firm.
Even as the United States demonstrated resilience, highlighted by a strong throw from Judge to tag out Fernando Tatis Jr. At third base, the Dominican Republic’s overall performance proved too strong. The team’s record-setting power display and Severino’s masterful pitching performance set the stage for a highly anticipated championship game.
The Dominican Republic will now look ahead to the championship game, aiming to secure their first World Baseball Classic title. Their potent offense and strong pitching staff will be key as they face a yet-to-be-determined opponent. The team’s success in this tournament has captivated fans and solidified their position as a force to be reckoned with in international baseball.
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