Team USA fell 8-6 to Team Italy in their final pool play game at the 2026 World Baseball Classic inside Daikin Park. The loss moves the Americans to 3-1 overall, but puts their spot in the elimination round in doubt.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
The USA went with Nolan McLean on the mound. He worked through a clean first, as did Italian starter Michael Lorenzen.
In the second inning, McLean ran into trouble. Kyle Teel hit a solo home run, and Sam Antonacci followed it up with a two-run shot later in the frame. That gave Italy a 3-0 lead.
In the fourth, former Florida Gator Jac Caglianone added two more runs with a home run of his own. Meanwhile, the American lineup continued to stay silent. Italy led 5-0 after four innings.
In the sixth, it appeared the US would get out of the inning with a double play ball. However, Brad Keller made an error, allowing a run to score. Italy would grab two more after that, making the lead 8-0.
Gunnar Henderson finally got the Americans on the board with a solo homer in the bottom of the sixth, making it 8-1.
Team USA’s offense finally showed some real life in the seventh. After two quick outs to start the inning, two straight hitters reached base. Then, Pete Crow-Armstrong hit a big three-run shot to right field to make it 8-4.
The comeback continued in the eighth, once again with two outs. Three straight hits including an RBI single from Roman Anthony cut into the lead once more, making it 8-5.
In the ninth, the American comeback effort continued. Crow-Armstrong launched another homer, this one a solo shot to right to make it 8-6.
The rally would end there, as Aaron Judge went down swinging as the tying run. Italy held on for an 8-6 win.
BIG NUMBER: 11
Team USA has now allowed 11 runs in games against Italy and Mexico. If Mexico were to beat Italy tomorrow, a three-way tie would be invoked. The Americans would only advance if either Italy or Mexico gave up more runs in their games against the same competition.
PLAYER OF THE GAME: Michael Lorenzen
Lorenzen’s start allowed Italy to gain their big lead. His pitching was critical as they pulled off a stunning upset.
UP NEXT: Team USA awaits the result of Team Mexico vs Team Italy tomorrow to see if they will qualify for the elimination round.
