USA stifles Dominican Republic's offense to makes WBC final

"Miller's full count slider sailed below the strike zone but was called a strike by home-plate umpire Cory Blaser on Sunday night, giving Team USA a 2-1 victory in a star-studded World Baseball Classic semifinal that was every bit as tense and as tightly contested as anticipated."

"Trailing by one with two outs left against the game's best closer, Julio Rodriguez worked a walk, moved to second on a passed ball and reached third on a groundout. Perdomo then worked the count full and fouled off back-to-back 101-mph fastballs from Miller. The ensuing pitch clearly missed the bottom of the strike zone."

"The U.S. and D.R. rosters featured 25 players who were ranked within ESPN's Top 100. The two lineups for the semifinals have combined for 56 All-Star Games, nine Gold Gloves, 31 Silver Sluggers, five MVPs and, with Team USA starter Paul Skenes, one Cy Young Award."

Team USA's Mason Miller closed out a tightly contested World Baseball Classic semifinal against the Dominican Republic with a controversial strike call. With two outs and the bases loaded, Dominican shortstop Geraldo Perdomo fouled off consecutive 101-mph fastballs before Miller threw a slider that appeared to miss the strike zone. Home-plate umpire Cory Blaser called it a strike, ending the game 2-1 in favor of the United States. The semifinal featured elite talent from both rosters, including 25 players ranked in ESPN's Top 100 and numerous All-Stars and award winners. The game showcased dramatic moments including home runs and exceptional defensive plays throughout nine innings.

Read at ESPN.com