The 2013 World Baseball Classic will come to a close as the Dominican Republic faces Puerto Rico for the third time, but this time, it's to close out the tournament. As we look at the matchups, the Dominicans are the favorite to win this one and here's why. Check out my predictions for this ball game. 

Team Dominican Republic is playing great, flawless baseball right now. They are playing as if there was no pressure in the competition, but yet, when they score a run they are letting you know they worked hard for it and will celebrate until the pitcher is getting ready to go and face their next hitter. This ultimately means they have an incredible amount of swag and confidence. The fact that they're so relaxed mixed with all the talent in their ball club spells trouble for Puerto Rico and we've seen this manifest itself on the field as the Dominicans have defeated Puerto Rico twice already in the 2013 WBC. 

The Dominicans are also undefeated. If they have been fiery in previous games, then expect them to be incredibly focused in this game as they could finish the entire tournament without losing a game. It would be the first time this feat would be performed and would be a great way for the Dominicans to end the tournament. 

Hitting 
When you look up and down this lineup, there's trouble. Starting at the top, when Jose Reyes and Erick Aybar are paired up on top (which I believe will be featured in today's lineup) the Dominicans have multiple options. Aybar is a contact hitter striking out twice in his 18 at bats. 

Then when you get to the middle of the order, the Dominicans have power as Robinson Cano has hit safely in all seven games so far. Hanley Ramirez has provided some pop as well as both infielders have two home runs each. 

Pitching 
The Puerto Ricans need to get on the board early on. If the position players have been playing with confidence, then what words can describe the way their bullpen has been playing? These guys come in the game to get the job done quickly. The Dominican bullpen hasn't allowed a run since Lorenzo Barcelo gave up a home run to Mike Aviles in the last game of the first round. 

Puerto Rican Hope 
If there's any hope for Puerto Rico, it lies in their ability to remain focused despite the odds. Though they have lost twice to the Dominicans, this could be a blessing in disguise. Let's face it, the Dominicans have a bunch of superstars. If by any chance these superstars become comfortable and think they won the game before getting 27 outs, then expect Puerto Rico's hustle to take over this game as they are capable of pulling the upset. 

Puerto Rico has had its backs on the wall before and managed to survive. There is no reason to believe they can't do it again.

However, I like the Dominican's chances better because they have proven they can come from behind early and late in the game. Also, once they have a lead, it's almost impossible to get it back. 

Final Score: For some reason, I keep getting the run differential correct, but not the right score. Yesterday, I had the Dominicans winning by three runs with a final score of 6-3. They won 4-1. This time, I'll stick to the three-run differential and say the Dominicans win it 5-2.  

Check out my other predictions at the bottom of this article and then compare them to the results also available.