Team USA Defeats Mexico 5-3 in World Baseball Classic Opener

Aaron Judge and Roman Anthony homer to lead the U.S. to victory over Mexico

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The United States defeated Mexico 5-3 in their opening game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic at Daikin Park in Houston. Aaron Judge hit a two-run homer and Roman Anthony added a three-run blast in the third inning to give the U.S. an early lead. Reigning NL Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes pitched four strong innings, allowing just one hit and striking out seven for the Americans. Mexico's Jarren Duran hit two solo home runs, but it wasn't enough as the U.S. held on for the victory.

Why it matters

This win avenges the U.S. team's 11-5 loss to Mexico in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, and puts them in a good position to advance to the quarterfinals in Houston this weekend. The game was played in front of a sellout pro-Mexico crowd, making the U.S. victory even more impressive.

The details

The U.S. jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the third inning, with Judge's two-run shot and Anthony's three-run blast. Mexico made it close late, with Duran's two solo homers, but the American bullpen was able to close out the win. Skenes, the top pitching prospect in baseball, was dominant for the U.S., striking out seven in four innings of one-hit ball.

  • The game was played on Monday, March 10, 2026 at Daikin Park in Houston.
  • The U.S. will next face Italy on Tuesday, March 11, 2026, seeking to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.

The players

Paul Skenes

The reigning NL Cy Young Award winner, Skenes allowed just one hit and struck out seven in four strong innings for Team USA.

Aaron Judge

The star outfielder hit a two-run homer in the third inning to give the U.S. an early lead.

Roman Anthony

The young slugger added a three-run blast in the third inning to extend the U.S. advantage.

Jarren Duran

The Mexico outfielder hit two solo home runs, providing most of the offense for his team.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.