Team USA advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Baseball Classic after defeating Mexico 5-3 in Houston on Monday night. The victory came after three straight wins in Pool B, securing their spot in the knockout stage, according to tournament organizers.
Despite Mexico’s recent dominance over the U.S., including an 11-5 win in 2023, Team USA broke that streak behind strong performances from captain Aaron Judge and 21-year-old Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony. Judge hit his second home run of the tournament in the first inning, giving the Americans an early lead. Anthony followed with a towering shot in the second inning, helping to open up the game.
Paul Skenes, making his first start for Team USA in the WBC, delivered an impressive performance on the mound. The former Air Force Academy pitcher allowed just one hit and struck out seven over four innings. His fastball topped the high-90s, complemented by sharp sinkers and changeups, according to reports.
Mexico responded with a solo home run from Jarren Duran, a teammate of Anthony on the Red Sox, in the sixth inning. Duran added another home run in the eighth, but it was not enough to overcome the U.S. lead. Joey Meneses and Jonathan Aranda also contributed with an infield single and a run scored in the early part of the game.
Relievers Griffin Jax and Garrett Whitlock closed out the game for the U.S., with Whitlock earning the save. With a 3-0 record, Team USA faces Italy in their final pool game on Tuesday at Daikin Park. The game is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. The Americans aim to stay undefeated and build momentum heading into the knockout rounds, organizers said.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
