02/09/2023 1 Minute Read

Brilliant middle infield, timely hitting lead Netherlands to first win against hitless Venezuela

The Dutch defeated Venezuela in a game that saw both pitching staffs allow numerous scoring chances through walks. A four-run rally in the bottom of the fifth proved the tie-breaker.

World No. 7 Netherlands defeated No. 6 Venezuela, 8-2, to earn their first win at the XXXI WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup. Despite not getting a hit, Venezuela had their scoring chances since the Dutch pitchers combined for 11 walks. Venezuela's five pitchers struck out ten but also allowed nine walks. The Dutch team's brilliant middle infield, led by shortstop Amarencio Franka, and timely hitting made the ultimate difference,

The Netherlands took the lead in the bottom of the third. Venezuela walked the bases loaded, and the first run scored on Joan Sierra's infield single. Jamie Berman made it 2-0 with a single up the middle.

Dutch starter Rodjensty Ignecia allowed the first Venezuelan run on three walks in the top of the fourth. Reliever Nathan Arends took the mound with the bases loaded and two outs. He walked in the tying run, then, on a full count, catcher Esmeiquel Arrieche grounded out to shortstop.

The Netherlands broke the tie in the bottom of the fifth. Reliever Maximo Gonzalez walked the bases loaded with one out and left for Juan Agudelo. The right-hander got the second out on strikes, then allowed a two-RBI single to second baseman Tai Tromp. Leadoff hitter Miquel Willem tripled to clear the bases and extend the Dutch lead to 6-2.

The Dutch added a couple of insurance runs in the sixth.

On Day 4, the Netherlands will face No. 11 Panama at 14:30. Venezuela will open the day against No. 21 Spain.