Saturday-WBC

In Saturday's action in the WBC-

In Tokyo, Korea eliminated China 14-0 early this morning, advancing to the second round along with Japan. China played 3 games, and was shut out twice. Chinese Taiei scored a total of 1 run in their 2 games. Korea and Japan will play once more before they head off to San Diego for the next round.

In San Juan, the Netherlands pulled the biggest upset in the history of the Classic, beating the Dominican Republic, 3-2. This set up a showdown of Netherlands against Puerto Rico, who defeated Panama 7-0. Carlos Ruiz was 1 for 2 and a walk before leaving the game with what appeared to be a stiff neck. I will await the medical report today when Panama take on the Dominican in an elimination game. Avelino Asprilla got into the game at shortstop late, but did not get an at bat.

In Toronto, the USA got past Canada, 6-5 in a thriller!! USA will face Venezuela tonight, after Venezuela's 7-0 win over Italy yesterday. Jack Santora got an at bat in relief for the Italian team ( 0 for 1) and Yoel Hernandez warmed up in the bullpen, but did not get into the game for Venezuela. It is still a thrill to see the guys on TV!!!

The Mexico City pool swings into action today, with Cuba facing Republic of South Africa at 2:00 and host Mexico facing Australia at 9:00. Both games on MLBN.

This is in addition to DR v Panama in the elimination game in San Juan(4:30, ESPN), and the US v Venezuela in Toronto(8:00, ESPN).