Taipei City. The World Baseball Classic Qualifier at Xinzhuang Stadium in Taipei City continued on Friday with game day number two. New Zealand made a statement, crushing Thailand 12-2 in eight innings.
The Diamondblacks avoided elimination with the win, while the tournament is over for the Asian underdog.
New Zealand scored in each of the eight innings, highlighted by a four-run rally in the second. Leadoff hitter Alan Schoenberger sparked the Kiwi offense by going 3-for-4 with two walks, four runs scored and two RBI. Shortstop Scott Campbell collected two hits, two runs and three RBI. Boss Moanaroa capped the offensive firework with a solo homerun in the top of the eighth frame.
Thailand only managed single runs in the fifth and the sixth deny New Zealand the shutout. Major Leaguer Johnny Damon, who played at first base in the game after being the designated hitter on Thursday, went 2-for-4 with a run to finish off the WBC Qualifier.
On the mound southpaw Makauley Fox Rolfe earned the win, allowing just one run on two hits and three walks in five strong innings. He struck out five, throwing 52 of his 78 pitches for strikes. Christian Wise, Yong-Min Lee and Wayde Bremner closed out the victory for the team of manager Andy Skeels.
Thailand’s starter Nattapong Meeboonrod issued eight hits, six runs (4 ER) and two base on balls in three innings to take the loss. Siraphop Nadee and Adichat Wongvichit also appeared in the game for Thailand.
New Zealand is going to face the loser of Friday evening game between Chinese Taipei and the Philippines on Saturday, trying to qualify for the final on Sunday.
For Thailand the World Baseball Classic Qualifier is over, losing twice in two days. They were defeated by the Philippines (2-8) on Thursday.
Results WBC Qualifier Taipei City:
Thursday, November 15:
Thailand 2 – Philippines 8
Chinese Taipei 10 – New Zealand 0
Friday, November 16:
Thailand 2 – New Zealand 12
Photo: Copyright World Baseball Classic, Inc.
