Puerto Rico advances to the quarterfinals of the World Baseball Basic as Edwin Diaz suffers damage throughout celebration.

In a surprising upset, Puerto Rico defeated the Dominican Republic 5-2 within the closing recreation of Group D at LoanDepot Park to safe a spot within the quarterfinals of the World Baseball Basic.

Puerto Rico’s victory was powered by a four-run rally within the third inning that gave them a snug lead they’d not relinquish. Nevertheless, the sport ended on a bitter word for Puerto Rico, as nearer Edwin Daz suffered an damage throughout the post-game celebration.

The sport bought off to a powerful begin for Dominican Republic pitcher Johnny Cueto, who held Puerto Rico scoreless for the primary two innings. Nevertheless, within the third inning, Christian Vzquez hit a house run to present Puerto Rico the lead.

The crew then capitalized on the chance, with two extra runners reaching base and Bryan Abreu taking Cueto’s place on the mound.

Sadly for the Dominican Republic, Abreu struggled and gave up three runs, permitting Puerto Rico to take a commanding 4-0 lead.

Juan Soto managed to shut the hole with a homer of his personal in the identical inning, nevertheless it was not sufficient to spark a comeback. Puerto Rico continued to benefit from the Dominican Republic’s errors, significantly a pricey mistake by outfielder Julio Rodrguez that allowed Francisco Lindor to attain a area residence run and lengthen the result in 5-1.

Regardless of DR’s failed rally within the fifth inning, Puerto Rico managed to return on prime

Regardless of a powerful alternative to attain within the fifth inning, with the bases loaded and no outs, the Dominican Republic solely managed to attain yet one more run earlier than the sport ended. Yacksel Ros pitched an impressive inning and two-thirds to earn the win for Puerto Rico, whereas Edwin Daz pitched the ultimate inning for the save.

Sadly, the victory celebration was minimize brief for Puerto Rico as Daz suffered an damage throughout the festivities. He was helped off the sphere by his teammates and left the stadium in a wheelchair.

The crew will now face Mexico, the chief of Group C, within the quarterfinals on Friday, as they proceed their quest for a World Baseball Basic title.