Japan Faces Underdog Czechia in WBC Pool Play Finale

Czechia's amateur squad looks to pull off another upset against Japan's pitching ace Hiroto Takahashi

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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As Japan prepares to head to Miami for the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Baseball Classic, their final pool play game against Czechia on Tuesday represents more than just a contest on the field. Czechia, comprised largely of amateur players with day jobs, has captured the hearts of Japanese fans with their underdog story, leading to an official partnership between the two countries to foster the global growth of baseball. The game will feature an intriguing pitching duel between Czechia's Ondřej Satoria, known for his deceptive changeup, and Japan's rising star Hiroto Takahashi.

Why it matters

The enthusiasm surrounding Team Czechia highlights the increasing globalization of baseball, with the World Baseball Classic serving as a platform for showcasing talent from countries traditionally outside the sport's mainstream. This exposure not only inspires players and fans in those regions but also enriches the game with diverse playing styles and cultural perspectives.

The details

Czechia enters the game with a 0-3 record, already eliminated from contention. However, their presence in the WBC has resonated with fans, particularly in Japan, as the team is comprised largely of amateur players with day jobs - a stark contrast to the professional athletes dominating most of the tournament. Manager Pavel Chadim is, notably, a neurologist. This unique composition has captured the hearts of Japanese fans, who quickly embraced the Czech team during their first meeting in 2023. The connection has grown into an official partnership, with Japan aiming to foster the growth of baseball globally.

  • The game will be played on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 6:00 AM ET.
  • The game will be held at the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan.

The players

Ondřej Satoria

An electrical technician from the Czech Republic who gained viral fame in 2023 by striking out Shohei Ohtani. Despite a fastball that barely reaches 80 mph, Satoria relies on a deceptive changeup - affectionately nicknamed 'the worker' - to keep hitters off balance.

Hiroto Takahashi

One of Japan's most promising young starters. Takahashi trains with Yoshinobu Yamamoto during the offseason and boasts a blazing fastball and effective offspeed pitches. He previously pitched in relief during the 2023 Classic, striking out Paul Goldschmidt and Mike Trout in the championship game.

Pavel Chadim

The manager of the Czech Republic team, who is notably a neurologist by profession.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The game on Tuesday will determine whether Japan finishes pool play undefeated and heads to the quarterfinals in Miami.

The takeaway

The enthusiasm surrounding Team Czechia highlights the increasing globalization of baseball, with the World Baseball Classic serving as a platform for showcasing talent from countries traditionally outside the sport's mainstream. This exposure not only inspires players and fans in those regions but also enriches the game with diverse playing styles and cultural perspectives.