24/02/2020 2 Minute Read

WBSC U-18 Men’s Softball World Cup Day 3: Czech Republic claim historic win, Japan, Australia stay unbeaten to top groups

Right handed pitcher Jakub Osicka claimed 14 strikeouts in an historic Czech Republic 9-2 win over Canada as the European champions, who scored in every at bat, beat the eight-time medallists for only the second time at junior level.

World No. 1 Japan and reigning juniors champions Australia top the two groups as the two unbeaten sides after three days of the U-18 Men’s Softball World Cup.

Both teams showed top form as they ran away with three home runs apiece as Japan shut out Denmark (15-0) while Australia defeated Singapore (11-0).

But it was right handed pitcher Jakub Osicka who claimed 14 strikeouts in an historic Czech Republic 9-2 win over Canada as the European champions, who scored in every at bat, beat the eight-time medallists for only the second time at junior level. The 17 year-old pitcher used 119 pitches to earn his side’s second win of the tournament and lower his ERA to 1.40 to lead the tournament.

Diego Morales also had a stellar pitching performance to guide Guatemala to a key win over USA 10-3. The right hander fanned 13 US hitters in a complete game effort. Guatemala moved to 2:1 and is still in the fight for the Super Round.

Osicka and Morales lead the tournament in strikeouts, with 29 and 23 respectively.

Beyond these two pitching performances, hitters also made a statement on Monday with a total of 10 homers in the six games played. Australia, Czech Republic and Japan hit three bombs each in their wins, including two dingers by Japanese center fielder Masaya Ohashi.

Day 3 Results and Match Info
New Zealand 14-3 Mexico
Japan 15-0 Denmark
Guatemala 10-3 USA
Czech Republic 9-2 Canada
Singapore 0-11 Australia
South Africa 1-6 Argentina