The United States will face Puerto Rico as the Dominican Republic plays against Italy as Pool 2 will be under way at the 2013 World Baseball Classic. Look at the times, pitching matchups and where to watch both games as powerhouses meet up in the second round of the WBC tournament.
First up, the true powerhouse out of the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic faces Italy.
Dominican Republic vs. Italy: TIME 1 p.m. ET WHERE to WATCH: MLB Network
The Dominicans are undefeated in the WBC tournament. They breezed by the first round defeating everybody in their Pool. The Venezuelans were no match. Spain never seemed to have a chance, while Puerto Rico made things interesting as they were able to control the Dominican bats for some time.
Italy brings a surprising lineup that defeated Mexico and Canada in the first round. Their only loss was to the USA. Italy is a scrappy team that likes to take advantage of mistakes, just ask Edgar Gonzalez, the left fielder for Mexico late in their game. He couldn't handle to fly balls and this ultimately cost Mexico the game.
With Anthony Rizzo, a future MLB slugger, in the middle of their lineup. He makes this team dangerous. Though they lack true veteran MLB stars, they have been able to challenge all their opponents.
On the mound for the Dominican Republic today will be Edison Volquez. He pitching a perfect inning against Venezuela where he struck out one batter.
Taking the hill for Italy will be Tiago da Silva. He pitched a solid 3.1 innings against Mexico where he held them to only one run on four hits with a walk and five strikeouts.
Puerto Rico vs. USA: TIME 9 p.m. ET WHERE to WATCH: MLB Network.
Not that this has anything to do with baseball, but it's weird watching these guys face each other when Puerto Rico isn't really a country. Why not have the Puerto Ricans play for the U.S.? Maybe they don't consider themselves American, which means they should just become independent?
Anyways, Team USA is excited. They have what they believe is a secret weapon having saved Gio Gonzalez for this matchup. Had Derek Holland not pitched well in their game against Canada, saving Gonzalez for the second round would have looked foolish. However, the genius that he is, Joe Torre, managed the situation well and now has an ace taking the hill in Miami.
For the Puerto Ricans, their veteran pitcher, Mario Santiago who is 28 years old.
This game should be interesting as both teams are filled with stars and both finished the first round 2-1.
These games are extremely pivotal as the first teams to lose twice will be out of the tournament and unable to participate in the 2013 WBC semifinal.
