Team USA edged the Dominican Republic 2-1 in the World Baseball Classic semifinal on Sunday night in Miami, advancing to the championship-but not without controversy.
The game ended when U.S. closer Mason Miller struck out Dominican shortstop Geraldo Perdomo looking on a low pitch. Earlier in the eighth inning, Juan Soto also struck out looking on a similar borderline call from David Bednar, ending the Dominican Republic’s rally.
FOX Sports analysts Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz, and Derek Jeter questioned the strike zone. Rodriguez called the final pitch “about four inches down” and “not a strike,” while Ortiz noted inconsistency in the umpire’s calls. Jeter acknowledged the controversy but credited Team USA’s strong defense and timely hitting-including two home runs-as decisive.
Team USA now awaits the winner of the Venezuela-Italy semifinal.