Dominican Republic ties WBC home run record on Austin Wells' blast

The Dominican Republic is poised to break Mexico's standing record of 14 home runs in the World Baseball Classic.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:07am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Dominican Republic's offensive dominance at the World Baseball Classic continued on Friday, as Austin Wells hit a walk-off home run to defeat Korea 10-0 and tie the tournament record of 14 home runs set by Mexico in 2009. The Dominican team has been stealing the show with their emphatic home run celebrations, including elaborate bat flips and epic home run trots. Manager Albert Pujols has praised his players' unique energy and culture, saying it's something that can't be replicated. The Dominican Republic will now advance to the semifinal round on Sunday against the winner of the United States and Canada.

Why it matters

The Dominican Republic's offensive prowess and celebratory style at the World Baseball Classic have captivated audiences, showcasing the country's rich baseball culture and passion for the game. Their record-tying home run performance highlights the team's dominance and the growing popularity of the WBC tournament.

The details

In Friday's quarterfinal matchup against Korea, Austin Wells hit a first-pitch cutter for a walk-off home run, giving the Dominican Republic their 14th homer of the tournament and tying the previous WBC record set by Mexico in 2009. The Dominican team has led the tournament in numerous offensive categories, including home runs, runs scored, batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage. Their home run celebrations, featuring elaborate bat flips and epic home run trots, have become a highlight of the tournament, igniting the crowds at loanDepot Park.

  • On March 13, 2026, the Dominican Republic defeated Korea 10-0 in the quarterfinal of the World Baseball Classic.

The players

Austin Wells

A player for the Dominican Republic who hit the record-tying home run against Korea.

Albert Pujols

The manager of the Dominican Republic team, who has praised his players' unique energy and culture.

Junior Caminero

A Dominican Republic player who hit a go-ahead two-run homer against Nicaragua in the first game of pool play, with an energetic celebration.

Juan Soto

A Dominican Republic slugger who hit one of the four home runs against Venezuela on Wednesday.

Ketel Marte

A Dominican Republic player who also hit a home run against Venezuela on Wednesday.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I just don't think you can. That's in our blood, that's in our DNA. That's how we play baseball. That responsibility that we have wearing this jersey, especially representing our country — the culture, the attitude, the way the guys go about it — I mean, you're born with that, and sometimes, you know, that's even harder to teach.”

— Albert Pujols, Manager

What’s next

Should the Dominican Republic hold on to beat Korea, they will advance to the semifinal round on Sunday against the winner of the United States and Canada.

The takeaway

The Dominican Republic's offensive dominance and celebratory style at the World Baseball Classic have captivated audiences, showcasing the country's rich baseball culture and passion for the game. Their record-tying home run performance highlights the team's prowess and the growing popularity of the WBC tournament.