Italy Stuns Puerto Rico, Advances to WBC Semifinals

Puerto Rico's young roster falls short despite late rally against surprise Italian squad

Mar. 15, 2026 at 6:53pm

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In a shocking quarterfinal upset, Italy defeated Puerto Rico 8-6 at Daikin Park in Houston to advance to the World Baseball Classic semifinals. Despite an early home run by Willi Castro, Puerto Rico's pitching and offense faltered as Italy scored four runs off starter Seth Lugo and four more against the bullpen to take an 8-2 lead. Though Puerto Rico rallied with four runs in the eighth inning, the Italian relief corps held on for the victory.

Why it matters

This result marks the first time a European team has reached the WBC semifinals, continuing Italy's Cinderella run in the tournament. For Puerto Rico, the loss is a disappointment as they were without several MLB stars, forcing manager Yadier Molina to rely on a young roster that struggled at the plate.

The details

Italy starter Sam Aldegheri settled in after Castro's opening homer, and the Italian offense broke through against Lugo and the Puerto Rican bullpen. Despite a late Puerto Rican rally, the Italian relief corps preserved the lead to secure the upset victory.

  • The game was played on Saturday, March 15, 2026 at Daikin Park in Houston.
  • Puerto Rico opened the scoring with a home run by Willi Castro in the top of the first inning.

The players

Seth Lugo

Puerto Rico's starting pitcher, who struggled early and was unable to replicate his dominant performance from the team's first game.

Willi Castro

Puerto Rican outfielder who hit a home run to give his team an early lead.

Francisco Cervelli

Manager of the Italian national team, who led his squad to a surprising quarterfinal victory.

Yadier Molina

Manager of the Puerto Rican national team, who expressed pride in his young roster's effort despite the disappointing loss.

Sam Aldegheri

Italian starting pitcher who settled in after giving up the early home run to Willi Castro.

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What they’re saying

“We were able to react late in the game, but for me it was already too late.”

— Yadier Molina, Puerto Rico Manager

“We weren't consistent. The pitching got us to the second round. I feel we left a lot of people on base and in a tournament like this, you have to be a little better on offense and not make mistakes.”

— Yadier Molina, Puerto Rico Manager

What’s next

Italy will advance to the World Baseball Classic semifinals in Miami, where they will face the winner of the quarterfinal matchup between the United States and Venezuela.

The takeaway

This result is a historic achievement for Italy, as they become the first European team to reach the WBC semifinals. For Puerto Rico, the loss is a disappointment, but manager Yadier Molina praised his young roster's effort and commitment despite missing several MLB stars.