Peker, Garolini home runs give Argentina 8-1 win against New Zealand to remain in contention

In front of an electric crowd at a fully packed Nafaldo Cargnel Stadium, Argentina claimed a five-inning, 8-1 win over New Zealand on Day 2 of the WBSC U-23 Men's Softball World Cup Super Round to remain in contention for a spot in the World Championship Final. 

Argentina scored three runs in the first inning. A two-run home run by Argentina’s designated player Juan Cruz Garolini capped a three-run attack for the host team, following the effort of Alan Peker who drove in the first run with a single to right field. 

One inning later, Argentina used the long ball again to score. Gian Scialacomo singled on a soft line to centre field, and Alan Peker followed it up with a no-doubter to right field. However, Argentina missed one of the runs, as Scialacomo was called out for not stepping on home plate.

New Zealand scored one in the top of the fifth off an RBI single by Max Early who scored Floyd Nola. New Zealand loaded the bases with one out, but Argentina’s pitcher Matias Etchevers escaped the jam with a pair of strikeouts. Argentina still led the game at 4-1.

A four-run rally in the fifth gave Argentina the walk-off win. Two-run singles by Tomas Machuca and Conrado Zanuttini decided the game for Argentina.

In the circle, Matias Etchevers earned his first win in the tournament pitching a good game for Argentina. He struck out five in five innings, while giving up two hits, one run and a walk. Liam Potts was charged with the loss for New Zealand.

With the win, Argentina improved to 2-2 in the Super Round to remain in the hunt for a spot in the World Championship Final. They need a combination of results to join Japan in the final game.