Team Italy pulled off a shocking upset over Team USA in pool play of the 2026 World Baseball Classic on Tuesday. Even though the American team’s starting lineup boasted seven All-Stars and two rising stars, left fielder Roman Anthony and starting pitcher Nolan McLean, Italy defeated the US squad 8-6.
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The following day on Wednesday, Italy took down Mexico to finish as Pool B’s only undefeated team and advance to the quarterfinals. The win also secured Team USA a spot in the quarterfinals against Canada.
Before its dominant run through the World Baseball Classic, Italy played exhibitions games against MLB teams like the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Angels in early March.
Italy came back from a four-run deficit and defeated the Cubs by a score of 9-4 on March 3. But when Italy went head-to-head with the Angels on March 4, the Halos won 4-3 to mark Italy’s only loss this year.
Italy Had A Two-Run Lead Over The Angels
After two scoreless innings on both sides, Italy second baseman Jon Berti launched a two-run home run to give his team a lead in the top of the third inning.
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An inning later, second baseman Vaughn Grissom hit an RBI single and designated hitter Jorge Soler scored the Angels’ first run of the game. Italy first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino responded with an RBI double in the fifth inning to reclaim a two-run lead for his team.
Home runs from Soler and first baseman Jeimer Candelario in the sixth and eight inning tied the game 3-3. Then, Candelario secured the win for the Angels with a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the ninth inning.
The Angels did not make much noise in the free agent or trade markets this offseason but defeating a team like Italy shows what the Halos are capable of becoming this season.
Mar 10, 2026; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Angels right fielder Jorge Soler (12) signs autographs before a game against the San Diego Padres at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Photo Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
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