"Team USA's path to the quarterfinals wasn't exactly smooth. One of the biggest storylines of pool play was the Americans' surprising loss to Italy, which briefly put their advancement into doubt and forced some uncomfortable scoreboard watching. Ultimately, Italy's win over Mexico secured the United States the second qualifying spot out of Pool B, allowing Mark DeRosa's club to advance despite the early stumble."
"The American offense has been exactly what it was billed to be - explosive. Through pool play, the U.S. scored the second-most runs in the field while consistently applying pressure with a lineup packed with MVP-caliber hitters. The pitching staff has been equally impressive in stretches, posting the tournament's lowest WHIP and racking up more strikeouts than any other team, though the home run ball has been an occasional issue."
"DeRosa drew some criticism earlier in the week for resting several stars during the loss to Italy, but that approach almost certainly won't repeat itself in an elimination game. Expect a full-strength lineup featuring Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt Jr., Cal Raleigh, and Kyle Schwarber, each of whom finished in the top four of MVP voting last season."
Team USA advances to the World Baseball Classic knockout stage after pool play, facing Canada in a win-or-go-home quarterfinal matchup. The team's path included a notable loss to Italy that temporarily threatened advancement, but ultimately secured the second qualifying spot in Pool B. The American roster features an explosive offense that scored the second-most runs during pool play, led by MVP-caliber hitters including Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt Jr., Kyle Schwarber, and Cal Raleigh. The pitching staff has demonstrated strength with the tournament's lowest WHIP and most strikeouts, though home runs have occasionally been problematic. Manager Mark DeRosa is expected to deploy a full-strength lineup in this elimination game after resting players during pool play.
Read at Bleacher Nation
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