Day 5 of the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup 2025, held in Naha and Itoman, Okinawa, Japan, featured intense games and shifting standings as teams vie for Super Round and Placement Round spots.
Group A Highlights:
-
Japan finished the Opening Round with a flawless 5-0 record, securing the top spot in Group A. They defeated Puerto Rico 3-0, with strong pitching performances from Raito Okumura and Saku Hayase, and timely hitting including a two-out bunt that triggered defensive chaos in Puerto Rico’s infield.
-
Puerto Rico also qualified for the Super Round despite the loss.
-
The game between Chinese Taipei and Germany was delayed due to weather and is currently tied 4-4 in the sixth inning. Chinese Taipei has secured Super Round qualification, while Germany needs a win to avoid a potential three-way tie with Australia and Panama.
-
Italy held on to a narrow 5-4 victory over South Africa in a rain-delayed match. South Africa staged a strong comeback, but Italy’s timely hitting and pitching closed out the game.
-
The game between Korea and Cuba ended 3-0 in favor of Korea, who have qualified for the Super Round and are expected to secure second place upon completing their postponed game against South Africa on September 9.
Group B Highlights:
-
The USA secured an 11-1 win over Australia, finishing undefeated atop Group B with a 2-0 Super Round start. Their pitching dominated, highlighted by Coleman Borthwick’s perfect three innings and strong relief work from Brody Crane and Kaeden Watcher.
-
Panama defeated China 12-5 and tied Australia with a 2-3 record, while China struggles to find footing after early losses.
-
Korea’s match against South Africa was postponed due to a thunderstorm and will resume soon.
Standings Snapshot:
-
Japan and Puerto Rico advance from Group A.
-
USA and Korea lead Group B into the Super Round.
-
Teams like Cuba and South Africa will move to the Placement Round.
-
Australia, Panama, and China battle for positioning in Group B.
The tournament continues with crucial games as teams push to secure spots in the Super Round and improve their rankings.
