The defending champions opened the 2014 Junior Men’s World Softball Championship with an extra-innings victory, while the hosts thrilled the crowd with a win of their own.
In the second game on opening day, Argentina pitcher Huemul Mata tossed a no-hitter, recording an incredible 19 strikeouts. Teammate Teo Migliavacca had two hits and drove in the winning run in the bottom of the 8th, as Argentina edged Mexico 1-0.
Argentina won it all in 2012 on home turf, and Mata will likely play a large role in their quest for a repeat.
The Opening Ceremony of the championship featured a parade of all 10 teams, welcomed by Yukon First Nations and international dignitaries, as well as a ceremonial first pitch by Yukon Premier, Darrell Pasloski.
Following the ceremony, Canada took on the Czech Republic in front of a packed house. Matt Wardrop pitched a gem as the Canadians blanked the Czechs 7-0 in five innings. Johnathan Baker hit a three-run homer while Taylor Schubada went three-for-three at the plate.
In the second evening game, USA displayed their offensive prowess against Denmark, claiming a 13-4 victory. The Americans broke the game open in the second, putting five runs on the board, followed by three runs in the fourth and four in the fifth to end the game early.
Bryce Ducharme collected two RBIs and scored four runs on four hits.
Rivals Australia and New Zealand met on Day 1 of the tournament. It was a close game through three innings, but New Zealand tacked on two runs in the fourth and held off the Aussies 5-1.
Te Kahui Bishop hit a solo home run and went two for two at bat for New Zealand.
Japan showed their softball dominance with a 33-1 win over Singapore in four innings to kick-off the tournament. Haruki Kinjo went 6-for-6, including two doubles, and picked up seven RBIs. Okazaki Kento was the winning pitcher for Japan.
Key matchups on Day 2 include Canada vs. Argentina, and Australia vs. Japan. New Zealand opens up the action with a 1:30 pm game against the USA.
