Rockies relieverĀ Juan Mejia and the Dominican Republic suffered a tough 2-1 defeat to Team USA on Sunday night, marred by a controversial strike three call in the final inning.
Colorado's right-handed pitcher delivered a scoreless inning in relief, allowing only one hit while recording a strikeout. He also received assistance from center fielder Julio Rodriguez, who made a great play on a ball hit to the warning track.
With the Dominican Republic's elimination, the Rockies now have only three players remaining in the tournament.
Venezuela and Italy will compete for a spot in the World Baseball Classic championship gameĀ against Team USA.
MichaelĀ Lorenzen, the pitcher who led his team to an upset victory against Team USA in pool play with 4.2 scoreless innings, now has the opportunity to face the same team in the championship game. While initially slated to startĀ according to MLB.com,Ā Phillies right-handerĀ Aaron Nola is now the projected starter for Italy.
Ezequiel Tovar has been on a tear in the WBC for Venezuela, highlighted by a 3-for-4 performance with two doubles in an upset victory over the defending champion, Japan.Ā Colorado's shortstopĀ alsoĀ stoleĀ two bases in that game and is battingĀ 6-for-9 with four runs scored and three doubles.
Antonio SenzatelaĀ did not pitch in the quarterfinals against Japan and has only made one appearance in the tournament. The right-hander appeared in Venezuela's 7-5 loss to the Dominican Republic, allowing three runs on two hits in one inning, including a three-run shot to FernandoĀ TatisĀ Jr.
Italy has already defeated the WBC favorites and could have the keys to success, but they must not underestimate Venezuela, a team boasting major league talent throughout their lineup, including Ronald Acuña Jr. and Jackson Chourio to name a few.
The two countries will face off tonight at 6:00 PM MDT, withĀ KeiderĀ Montero scheduled to pitch for Venezuela. The game will be televised on FS1.
