Australia has claimed the silver medal at the WBSC U23 World Cup and a number of all-important WBSC World Ranking Points after falling to Japan 10-3 in the World Championship Game this morning.
Despite out-hitting Japan 10-7, two big innings from the World #1 baseball nation proved the difference, with Japan scoring four runs in the fourth, and five runs in the sixth inning.
Australia’s performances at the U23 World Cup have been fantastic, and are rewarded with a silver medal, as well as 551 WBSC World Ranking Points, which will come in handy leading into the next international competition cycle.
After a scoreless start to the ballgame, Australia took an early lead after a couple of strong hits. A single to Sam Kennelly and a double from Ben Leslie saw runners at second and third, and from there, it was all up to Aaron Whitefield, who drove in Kennelly and Leslie with a solid hit to right field, giving Australia a 2-0 lead in the third inning.
Detroit Tigers prospect and Sydney Blue Sox star Zac Shepherd showed his power and extended Australia’s lead to three in the fourth against the world’s baseball powerhouse, with a solo shot to left field.
Nick Veale had a fantastic start going through the early innings, working quickly and not letting the Japanese hitters settle into any rhythm. Veale put up three scoreless innings to begin the ballgame, but a forgettable fourth inning saw Japan claw four runs back and regain the lead.
Aaron Whitefield was the offensive star for Australia in the World Championship game, going 4-for-4 with two RBIs. Jacob Younis also had a strong day at the plate, claiming two hits.
Japan’s lead was extended in the seventh, with all nine hitters coming to the plate. A three-run home run from Taishi Hirooka capped off the inning, which included a costly error from Australia.
After coming into the U23 World Cup with a World Ranking of 13, Australia has punched well above their weight, recording victories against significant baseball nations including Chinese Taipei and Korea, and coming away with a well-earned silver medal.
Click here for the full box score.
