Fernando Tatis Jr.’s three-run homer and memorable bat flip fueled the Dominican Republic’s 7-5 win over Venezuela, sealing a 4-0 pool finish. Betting takeaway: Dominicans’ superstar-stacked lineup makes them a strong favorite vs. Korea — punters may lean Dominican moneyline or back an over/large run-line, while cautious bettors should consider hedging due to knockout volatility.
Fernando Tatis Jr. Sparks Dominican Republic to Pool-Closing Victory
The MLB star Fernando Tatis Jr. crushed a three-run home run in the fourth inning and punctuated it with a signature bat flip, lifting the Dominican Republic to a 7-5 win over Venezuela in Miami. The victory completed a flawless 4-0 run through pool play and sent the reigning national team into the WBC quarterfinals riding momentum and swagger.
Tatis’ performance and lineup firepower
Tatis finished pool play 6-for-13 with two homers, nine RBIs, six runs, five walks and three strikeouts, providing the kind of middle-order thunder that makes opposing pitchers nervous. Juan Soto added a two-run homer and his own bat flip earlier in the game, underscoring the lineup’s depth that includes Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Ketel Marte, Manny Machado, Junior Caminero, Julio Rodriguez and Austin Wells.
Quarterfinal draw: Korea up next in Miami
The Dominican Republic will face Korea in the quarterfinals Friday in Miami. A win there would set up a possible semifinal showdown with Team USA on Sunday night — but only if the U.S. defeats Canada Friday in Houston. The U.S. entered knockout play on shaky footing after a surprising pool-stage upset, leaving its path less certain.
Other quarterfinals and tournament schedule
On the opposite side of the bracket, Japan faces Venezuela and Italy takes on Puerto Rico on Saturday. The WBC schedule places the first semifinal on Sunday, the second on Monday, and the championship game on Tuesday.
Betting implications and what punters should watch
The Dominican Republic’s lineup makes them obvious favorites in upcoming matchups; bettors may favor the Dominican moneyline or back overs/run-line options expecting high-scoring affairs.
Who will win the World Baseball Classic?
Still, knockout baseball can be volatile—consider hedging or limiting stakes until starting pitching matchups and weather conditions are confirmed for the quarterfinals.
New York Post
