The 2026 World Baseball Classic pool play commenced with a series of decisive victories for tournament favorites. The Dominican Republic showcased its powerful lineup in a 12-3 win over Nicaragua, breaking a tie with a nine-run surge over the final three innings highlighted by home runs from Junior Caminero, Julio Rodriguez, and Oneil Cruz.
Team USA opened its campaign with a 15-5 victory over Brazil, though the game was closer than the final score suggests, with Brazil within three runs entering the ninth inning. Japan set a tournament record with a 10-run second inning, powered by a Shohei Ohtani grand slam, to defeat Chinese Taipei 13-0.
In other Friday results, Puerto Rico shut out Colombia 5-0, Mexico broke open a tight game to beat Great Britain 8-2, and Venezuela topped the Netherlands 6-2. Cuba also earned a win, defeating Panama 3-1 behind Yoán Moncada's two-run homer.
The action continues Saturday with key matchups including a highly anticipated clash between Korea and Japan.