Team USA reached the grand final of the World Baseball Classic, just one step away from their main objective. However, one controversial umpire decision in the USA vs Dominican Republic semifinal could have changed everything-and baseball fans quickly noticed.
Were the Dominican Republic robbed?
When Paul Skenes delivered a strong outing, allowing just one run on a home run by Junior Caminero, the United States bullpen took control of the game. The relief staff shut down the Dominican offense, preventing Albert Pujols’ team from scoring the tying run.
One of the most dramatic moments of this electrifying World Baseball Classic semifinal came when the Dominican Republic threatened late, placing Julio RodrÃguez on third base while Mason Miller tried to secure the save.
With two outs and a full count, it was Geraldo Perdomo who watched a very low pitch cross the plate. The home plate umpire called it strike three, ending the game and sending Team USA to the WBC final.
Immediately after the call, baseball fans flooded social media, questioning the decision and calling for automated strike zone technology to be implemented in the World Baseball Classic.
While a walk would not have guaranteed a comeback for the Dominican Republic national team, it would have changed the situation dramatically, putting runners on base and keeping the rally alive in the ninth inning.
The Dominican Republic finished the tournament with a historic offensive performance, hitting 15 home runs in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Meanwhile, Team USA now awaits its opponent between Italy and Venezuela as it prepares for the WBC championship game, seeking its second title after winning in 2017 and finishing runner-up in 2023.
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