Venezuela opened its participation in the 2023 World Baseball Classic with two resounding victories against two world-class foes: Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.
They dispatched the Dominicans on Saturday with a pitching masterclass by Martin Perez and Luis Garcia, plus some crucial at-bats from Anthony Santander and David Peralta.
On Sunday, they defeated Puerto Rico, 9-6, but were up 9-1 at one point.
It’s safe to say that right now, the vibes are immaculate in the Venezuelan clubhouse.
“Safe to say Team Venezuela is feeling good after beating the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico to start the WBC”, Talkin’ Baseball tweeted.
Safe to say Team Venezuela is feeling good after beating the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico to start the WBC pic.twitter.com/jMeTTHmDUs
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) March 13, 2023
The video was actually posted by American League batting champion and new Miami Marlins player Luis Arraez.
Arraez and some of the best players in MLB are seen screaming, dancing, and showing their happiness about their scintillating start in the tournament.
Venezuela had never beaten the Dominican Republic in WBC play in the previous four editions, so this one was a first.
The Dominicans were also seen as the favorites heading into the game.
One of Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic will be left out of the quarterfinals, so Venezuela will be in with one more victory.
That represents a very nice reason to celebrate.
They still have to win at least one more game, though, so while there is no harm in showing some joy about the things already achieved, they know the job is still not done.
The WBC goes on, but Team Venezuela is aiming high and looks solid all around the roster.
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