The 2026 World Baseball Classic witnessed one of its biggest upsets as Italy defeated the United States 8–6 in Pool B, leaving the tournament favourites facing an uncertain path to the knockout stage. The dramatic result has put Team USA’s quarter-final hopes in jeopardy, meaning their fate now depends on the outcome of other matches in the group.

Italy dominated early to stun tournament favourites

Italy delivered a stunning performance by racing to an 8–0 lead during the first six innings, catching the star-studded American side off guard. Home runs from Kyle Teel, Sam Antonacci and Jac Caglianone powered the Italian attack, while pitcher Michael Lorenzen contributed more than four scoreless innings to keep the USA lineup quiet early in the game.

Team USA eventually mounted a comeback attempt in the later innings, helped by home runs from Gunnar Henderson and Pete Crow-Armstrong, but the rally fell short. Italy’s closer Greg Weissert sealed the victory by striking out key American hitters, including Aaron Judge, in the final moments of the game. Despite out-hitting Italy overall, the United States could not recover from the large early deficit. The loss ended the Americans’ unbeaten run in Pool B and dramatically changed the group’s qualification scenario.

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Is Team USA eliminated from WBC 2026?

Team USA is not yet eliminated, but they no longer control their own destiny. After the defeat, the Americans stand at 3–1 in Pool B, while Italy improved to 3–0 at the top of the standings. The final group match between Italy and Mexico will decide whether the USA advances. If Italy wins that game, the United States will progress to the quarterfinals as the group’s second-placed team. However, if Mexico wins, a complex tiebreaker involving runs allowed per defensive out could determine which teams move forward.

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A low-scoring Mexican victory could potentially eliminate the United States from the tournament, making the upcoming game crucial for their survival. For now, Italy’s shock victory stands as one of the most memorable moments of the 2026 World Baseball Classic, proving once again that international baseball tournaments can produce dramatic upsets.