Italy continued its perfect run in Pool B of the 2026 World Baseball Classic with a decisive 9-1 win over Mexico in Houston on Wednesday, highlighted by an extraordinary performance from Vinnie Pasquantino. The Kansas City Royals first baseman made history by becoming the first player ever to hit three home runs in a single WBC game, a remarkable feat considering he entered the tournament 0-for-12 at the plate.
Pasquantino opened the scoring with a solo home run in the second inning and added two more in the sixth and eighth innings, powering Italy to a dominant victory. His historic performance helped Italy maintain a perfect 4-0 pool record and secure first place in Pool B.
Italy’s pitching staff also excelled, with Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Aaron Nola delivering five shutout innings, allowing just four hits while keeping Mexico’s offense off balance.
Offensively, Italy received additional contributions from Jon Berti, who hit a solo home run in the fourth inning, and from teammates Jakob Marsee and Dante Nori, who drove in key runs to build a commanding lead.
Italy Cruises Past Mexico as Vinnie Pasquantino Hits Historic Three Home RunsMexico’s defeat eliminated them from the tournament, while Italy’s victory ensured that Team USA advanced to the quarterfinals as the group’s second-place finisher.
Looking ahead, Italy will face Canada in a quarterfinal matchup on Saturday in Houston, with the winner advancing to the semifinals in Miami. Team USA is set to play Canada in another quarterfinal on Friday, with the victor facing either Korea or the Dominican Republic in Miami.
Pasquantino’s historic three-home-run performance and Italy’s continued dominance in Pool B underscore the excitement and unpredictability of the World Baseball Classic, setting the stage for thrilling action in the knockout rounds.
Italy’s combination of powerful hitting, solid pitching, and record-breaking individual performances positions them as one of the tournament favorites moving into the quarterfinals.
