The easiest scenario is for Italy to beat Mexico. A win by Italy would put them at 4-0 in pool play, making them the Pool B winner. That would also mean the USA would be the runner-up at 3-1 as Mexico would be 2-2 and fail to advance. The other scenario is a bit more complicated.

With Clayton Kershaw being removed from Team USA's roster, the Blue Jays reliever has joined America's pitching staff. In the 2025 postseason, Hoffman, a 2024 All-Star, recorded a 1.46 ERA, 0.81 WHIP and 18 strikeouts across 12.1 innings pitched for Toronto. Team USA will play the Dominican Republic in the semifinal round on Mar. 15.

USA baseball's showdown against DR will decide a spot in the WBC title game

Thanks to Italy, Team USA has avoided an embarrassing first-round elimination in the World Baseball Classic. Italy's win over Mexico Wednesday night at Daikin Park in Houston (ITA 9, MEX 1) punched the team's ticket and also USA's ticket to the quarterfinals.

Toronto Blue Jays reliever Jeff Hoffman replaces Clayton Kershaw on Team USA's roster ahead of the World Baseball Classic semifinal vs. the Dominican Republic.

Team USA hung on to beat Canada 5-3 and reach the WBC semifinals.

Team USA defeats Canada 5-3 in 2026 World Baseball Classic quarterfinals, marking the third U.S. victory over Canada in major international competition in the past month.

When does Team USA play next? Where does the United States play? Who does USA Baseball play? What to know about 2026 World Baseball Classic semifinal.

Aaron Judge and Team USA squad found a way to close out Canada and have now booked a spot in the World Baseball Classic semifinals. Next up? Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Dominican Republic in what should be an electric atmosphere in Miami.

Mark DeRosa says Sunday's World Baseball Classic semifinal vs. Team USA and the Dominican Republic could be one of the best games ever.