Juan Soto’s seventh inning home run ended the game early as the Dominican Republic defeated the Netherlands 12-1 in a dominant World Baseball Classic matchup on Sunday. The blast pushed the lead to double digits and triggered the tournament’s mercy rule, sealing a comfortable win for the Dominican side.The Dominican lineup showed its power throughout the game, hitting four home runs and keeping constant pressure on the Dutch pitching staff. The strong performance helped the team improve its record in Pool D while leaving the Netherlands in a difficult position in the standings.
Juan Soto’s seventh inning home run ends the game early as Dominican Republic win 12-1
The Dominican offense exploded again during the middle innings of the game. Junior Caminero and Austin Wells both added home runs during a big six run fifth inning that pushed the team further ahead.By the seventh inning, the result was almost certain. Juan Soto stepped up and launched a powerful home run that extended the lead and triggered the mercy rule. The game officially ended with the Dominican Republic securing a 12-1 victory.Pitcher Luis Severino also played an important role for the Dominican side. He allowed just one run across four innings, with the only damage coming from a home run by Didi Gregorius.
Dominican Republic hit four home runs and build big lead before Soto’s final blast
The Dominican Republic started building momentum early in the contest. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. gave the team an important boost with a two run home run in the third inning that helped the lineup settle into rhythm.The powerful hitting continued as the Dominican players kept attacking pitches and putting pressure on the Netherlands pitching staff. The steady scoring created a large lead that eventually led to the early finish.Dominican manager Albert Pujols praised his players after the win. “No matter if you win by one run or by knockout, the most important thing is to win the game,” Pujols said. “We have a very good team with a great offense, a very good bullpen, starters, you name it. The credit is all for the guys; they are extremely motivated.”Netherlands manager Andruw Jones admitted the Dominican lineup was extremely difficult to face. “I have seen so many good lineups, but this kind of lineup in a Classic? Wow, that’s too much,” Jones said. The dominant win also strengthened the Dominican Republic’s strong start in Pool D.