USA's WBC Quarterfinal Fate Hinges on Italy–Mexico Showdown
In Pool B of the World Baseball Classic, the United States, Italy and Mexico remain in contention for two quarterfinal spots, with Brazil and Great Britain eliminated. After the USA beat Mexico but lost to Italy, the final standings will be decided in Wednesday’s Italy–Mexico game. If Italy defeats Mexico, Italy clinches Pool B and the USA advances as runner-up on a tiebreaker. If Mexico wins, the USA can still advance only if Mexico scores at least five runs, since the tie-breaker among the tied teams uses the ratio of runs allowed to defensive outs; the exact outcome will be determined in the Italy–Mexico matchup.
