USA Wins 2017 World Baseball Classic Title Over Puerto Rico

Marcus Stroman and Eric Hosmer led the way as Team USA captured its first WBC championship.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 8:20am

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The United States won its first-ever World Baseball Classic title in 2017, defeating Puerto Rico 8-0 in the championship game at Dodger Stadium. Marcus Stroman tossed six brilliant innings with only one hit allowed, while Eric Hosmer and the American lineup provided the offensive firepower. The U.S. had previously fallen short in 2006, 2009, and 2013 before finally breaking through for the title five years ago.

Why it matters

The 2017 World Baseball Classic championship was a landmark moment for Team USA, which had struggled to find success in the tournament's previous editions. The victory not only gave the Americans their first WBC title, but also provided a boost of momentum and confidence heading into future competitions.

The details

After suffering a pool play loss to the Dominican Republic, the U.S. rebounded to eliminate the DR in the second round before defeating Japan 2-1 in the semifinals. In the championship game, Stroman dominated on the mound while Hosmer and the offense erupted for an 8-0 win over Puerto Rico. The title was the culmination of a strong tournament run for a talented American roster that featured stars like Buster Posey, Nolan Arenado, and Giancarlo Stanton.

  • The 2017 World Baseball Classic took place from March 6-22, 2017.
  • The championship game between the United States and Puerto Rico was played on March 22, 2017 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.

The players

Marcus Stroman

The starting pitcher for the United States in the 2017 World Baseball Classic championship game, where he tossed six innings of one-hit baseball to lead his team to victory.

Eric Hosmer

The first baseman for the United States in 2017, who provided key offensive production in the championship game and throughout the tournament.

Buster Posey

The star catcher for the San Francisco Giants who was a key member of the 2017 U.S. World Baseball Classic roster.

Nolan Arenado

The All-Star third baseman for the Colorado Rockies who represented the United States in the 2017 World Baseball Classic.

Giancarlo Stanton

The powerful outfielder for the Miami Marlins who was part of the 2017 U.S. World Baseball Classic team.

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What they’re saying

“Winning the World Baseball Classic for the first time was an incredible feeling. The guys on this team really came together and played their hearts out.”

— Marcus Stroman, Starting Pitcher, United States (Sporting News)

“To be able to represent your country and bring home the championship is something I'll never forget. This was a special group of players.”

— Eric Hosmer, First Baseman, United States (Sporting News)

What’s next

The United States will look to defend its World Baseball Classic title in the 2026 tournament, where it will face stiff competition from other baseball powerhouses around the world.

The takeaway

The 2017 World Baseball Classic championship was a landmark moment for Team USA, which had previously struggled to find success in the tournament. The victory not only gave the Americans their first WBC title, but also provided a boost of momentum and confidence heading into future competitions on the global stage.