Jiaxin Xie’s five RBIs send China to the playoffs

The Chinese Women’s National Softball Team clinched their spot in the playoffs with today’s five-inning win over hosts Spain, 8-0, in the last game of Day 3 of the Women’s Softball World Cup Group B. Jiaxin Xie collected five RBIs to lead the Chinese lineup.

China took the lead in the fourth inning, with a two-run double by Jiaxin Xie, who sparked a four-run first inning. One inning later, Jia Xu drove in China’s fifth run with a sac fly. 

In the bottom of the fourth, Jiaxin Xie extended China’s lead with a three-run homer to right center field, that set the table for her team’s run-difference victory.

China used two pitchers to complete the five innings. Yinan Chai tossed three innings with three strikeouts, giving up only one hit. She was the winning pitcher of the game. Lefty Yuchen Wei replaced her and retired the last six outs. 

Carmen Caicoya started for Spain and was charged with the loss. She pitched 1+ inning, giving up four hits and four runs.

With this win, China remain undefeated an advanced to Saturday’s playoffs. Tomorrow they will complete the Opening Round with a doubleheader agains South Africa and Cuba.