World Series champion Doug Mientkiewicz criticized media focus on the Dominican Republic's loss following Team USA’s narrow 1-0 victory over the D.R. in the World Baseball Classic semifinals.
The game ended in the ninth inning when Geraldo Perdomo struck out looking on a pitch that appeared to be outside the strike zone and below his knees. Perdomo was visibly stunned, and Dominican players expressed frustration.
Mientkiewicz, who won the title with the Boston Red Sox, said on social media he wished coverage had centered on the U.S. triumph instead of the controversial call. "It’s a sad day when people born here make excuses for a team losing," he wrote.
He emphasized that baseball is about competition, passion, and excellence-regardless of nationality.
Juan Soto echoed the sentiment, stating the Dominican Republic showed it was among the world’s best teams. Perdomo insisted the pitch was clearly a ball.
Team USA now faces Venezuela in the WBC final, aiming for its second title.