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Ohtani Struck Twice as Venezuela Reaches Semi-Finals, Advancing Past Japan in World Series Playoffs

6 articles | Updated 1d ago | Created 1d ago

Venezuela shocked baseball history by defeating defending World Baseball Classic champion Japan 8-5 in Saturday night's quarterfinals at loanDepot Park, securing its first semifinal appearance since 2009. The upset ended three-time champions' historic consistency and featured a dramatic comeback sparked by Maikel Garcia before Wilyer Abreu delivered the go-ahead home run with an iconic bat flip that sent Miami fans celebrating outside the park after thrilling more than 35,000 spectators witnessed both teams play in star-studded lineups.

  1. 1
    Venezuela defeated defending World Baseball Classic champion Japan in an upset victory with a final score of 8-5.
  2. 2
    Wilyer Abreu delivered key performance by hitting the go-ahead, three-run home run to secure Venezuela's win and advancement.
  3. 3
    Maikel Garcia sparked the comeback for Caracas after taking two runs early against Shohei Ohtani-led Japan.
[Mar 15] Venezuela defeated defending WBC champion Japan with an 8-5 score in the quarterfinals, advancing to their first semifinal appearance since 2009.