Venezuela and Japan will face each other in the Quarterfinals of the World Baseball Classic

Published at: 12/03/2026 08:40 AM

Venezuela finished second in group D with a balance of 3 wins and 1 loss, after falling in the last group stage match against the Dominican Republic 7-5, at LoanDepot Park in Miami.

After that result, Venezuela will have the current champion Japan as its rival in the Quarterfinals. The match will be played next Saturday the 14th at 9:00 in the evening, also in Miami.

For its part, the Dominican Republic, who finished as the group's undefeated leader (4-0), will face South Korea in the next round.

Manager Omar López in statements to the media, after the match against the Dominican Republic, explained that he had to rethink the game after the departure of Antonio Senzatela —who was the second replacement of starter Eduardo Rodríguez- and use the bullpen to keep the game closed, press review of the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League (LVBP).

López said he is now focusing on Japan. “To be able to reach the final and be champion, we have to beat the best, who are defending the crown, we have to come out and win,” he said.

In that regard, he reported that the pitcher Ranger Suárez will be the starter of next Saturday's match against Japan.

“I trust this team and its coaching staff. We don't have to go into panic mode, just get ready,” he emphasized.

The Japanese will have Yoshinobu Yamamoto on the mound.

Mazo News Team