Despite a strong offensive performance, Team Australia’s quest for Honkbalweek glory has come to an end, falling 9-4 at the hands of Japan in the preliminary final.
Australia out-hit Japan 15-10, but couldn’t make the most of their opportunities, while a five run seventh inning from Japan proved the difference.
Two quick runs for Japan in the second were immediately cancelled out by Australia, with an RBI single from Ryan Battaglia followed by a quality 10 pitch at-bat from Jacob Younis which brought Australia back into the ballgame.
Mitch Dening had one of the strongest offensive performances of the tournament, going 4-for-5 with an RBI.
Team Australia Manager Jon Deeble was impressed with his team’s performance during the tournament.
“We got the hits but couldn’t bunch any together,” Deeble said.
“All in all on the preparation we’ve had as a team compared to the other countries, I’m not disappointed at all with the performance.”
Every Australian in the starting lineup had a hit, but some impressive pitching during the middle innings from Takuya Kato, who struck out six in three innings kept Australia’s offence at bay.
Despite a pair of late runs driven in by Mitch Dening and David Kandilas, it was too little too late for Team Australia, who couldn’t match Japan’s bullpen, and ultimately fell in a tough loss.
The next chance to see Team Australia will be at the World Baseball Classic, which will take place early next year.
Team Australia Manager Jon Deeble was pleased by the overall standard of the tournament.
“I was really impressed with the quality of play,”
“There’s definitely some lessons to be learned here, we need to take it to the next level if we’re to progress. All in all though it’s been a great chance to get these guys together and set our sights firmly on the World Baseball Classic next year.”