Italy secures historic semi-final berth in World Baseball Classic after defeating Puerto Rico.
The Italian national team has advanced to the semi-finals of the World Baseball Classic for the first time in the tournament’s history, in a landmark achievement for European baseball.
The Azzurri secured their progression following a 8-6 victory over Puerto Rico at Daikin Park in Houston on Saturday, maintaining an unblemished 5–0 record and confirming their status as the pre-eminent dark horse of the 2026 competition.
Italy’s triumph follows victories in recent days over Mexico, 9-1, and the shock defeat of Team USA, 8-6.
Saturday’s encounter began with immediate pressure as Puerto Rico took an early lead through a leadoff home run by Willi Castro. Italy responded with clinical efficiency in the bottom of the first inning, however, scoring four runs to seize control of the game.
Team captain Vinnie Pasquantino initiated the comeback with an RBI single, while Andrew Fischer later provided a two-run double in the fourth inning to extend the advantage to 8-2.
On the mound, Sam Aldegheri delivered a composed performance to earn the win, further validating the depth of Italian-born talent within the squad.
Despite a spirited late-game resurgence from Puerto Rico, who narrowed the deficit to two runs during the eighth inning, the Italian bullpen remained resolute. Relief pitcher Greg Weissert executed a five-out save, forcing a groundout from Nolan Arenado to secure victory.
The Italian squad now travels to Miami to face Venezuela – who defeated the defending champions, Japan – for a semi-final clash at loanDepot park on Monday.
Photo Federazione Italiana Baseball Softball
