Italy stuns US 8-6 in World Baseball Classic

Americans need help to advance after loss to Italy

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Italy starter Michael Lorenzen allowed two hits in 4 2/3 scoreless innings to keep the Americans off balance as Italy built a big lead and held on to stun the United States 8-6 Tuesday night in the World Baseball Classic. The U.S. is done with pool play and needs the Italians to beat Mexico Wednesday night to be guaranteed a spot in the quarterfinals.

Why it matters

This loss puts the U.S. team in a precarious position, needing help from Italy to advance in the tournament. The upset by Italy highlights the unpredictability and competitiveness of the World Baseball Classic, where any team can pull off a surprise victory.

The details

Kyle Teel, Sam Antonacci and Jac Caglianone homered as Italy built an 8-1 lead. Pete Crow-Armstrong hit two home runs for the U.S. to cut the deficit, but the rally fell short when Greg Weissert struck out Aaron Judge with a runner on to end the game.

  • On Tuesday night, Italy defeated the United States 8-6 in the World Baseball Classic.

The players

Michael Lorenzen

The Italy starter who allowed two hits in 4 2/3 scoreless innings to keep the Americans off balance.

Pete Crow-Armstrong

The U.S. player who hit two home runs, including a three-run shot in the ninth inning, to try to lead a comeback.

Greg Weissert

The Italy pitcher who struck out Aaron Judge with a runner on to end the game and seal the upset victory.

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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 U.S. team needs Italy to beat Mexico on Wednesday night in order to guarantee a spot in the quarterfinals of the World Baseball Classic.

The takeaway

This upset loss by the heavily favored U.S. team highlights the unpredictability and competitiveness of the World Baseball Classic tournament, where any team can pull off a surprise victory on any given day.