Box score
SEOUL — In an all-European battle, No. 41 Israel defeated No. 9 Netherlands, 4-2, at the Gocheok Sky Dome to remain undefeated and win Group A of the World Baseball Classic.
It was Israel’s third-straight victory over a Top 10 country, after defeats of No. 3 Korea and No. 4 Chinese Taipei.
“As far as what it means for Israel, it’s huge. It gives more recognition to baseball and hopefully more attention on baseball and Israel,” said Israel right fielder Zach Borenstein (Arizona Diamondbacks AAA – MLB).
Netherlands (2-1) closes Group A in 2nd Place, ahead of No. 3 Korea and No. 4 Chinese Taipei.
Israel and Netherlands will face off in Tokyo against the top two nations from Group B, which includes No. 1 Japan, No. 5 Cuba, No. 10 Australia and No. 18 China.
Advancing to the second round, Israel — newcomers to the Classic — will look to jump within the Top 20 when the Official WBSC Baseball World Rankings are updated.
