The 2023 World Baseball Classic (WBC) is nearing its climax, with the USA securing their spot in the final after defeating Mexico in a tense semi-final. The final will be held on Sunday, March 19, 2023. Here’s all you need to know about the tournament.
Schedule
The 2023 WBC started on March 9, with the opening round featuring six pools in four different regions around the world. The top two teams from each pool advanced to the second round, which took place on March 14-19.
The final round, which includes the semi-finals and the final, will take place in the US on March 18-19.
TV Channel
The 2023 WBC is being broadcast on a number of channels around the world, including ESPN in the US, Sportsnet in Canada, BS-TBS in Japan, and ESPN Deportes for Spanish-language viewers.
Live Stream
For viewers who can’t access a TV, the WBC is also available to stream online. In the US, you can watch the games on the ESPN app or on the MLB.TV streaming platform. Other countries may have their own streaming services available.
USA Makes Final
The USA, led by manager Joe Girardi, secured their spot in the final with a thrilling 6-5 victory over Mexico. Trailing 5-2 in the seventh inning, the US mounted an incredible comeback, scoring four runs to take the lead before holding on for the win.
The US will face either Japan or Mexico in the final, depending on the outcome of their semi-final clash.
Japan-Mexico in Semis
Japan and Mexico will face off in the other semi-final, with the winner earning the right to play in the final. Japan, the winners of the first two WBC tournaments in 2006 and 2009, have been in dominant form throughout the tournament and will be tough to beat.
Mexico, meanwhile, have been one of the surprise packages of the WBC, upsetting the likes of the Dominican Republic and Venezuela in the earlier rounds.
In conclusion, the 2023 World Baseball Classic has been one of the most exciting showcases of international baseball in recent memory, and the final promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the world’s best teams. Be sure to tune in to catch all the action.
