USA Tops Mexico 5-3 to Dominate WBC Group B
Team USA remained unbeaten in the 2026 World Baseball Classic after defeating Mexico 5-3 on March 9, powered by Paul Skenes' dominant start and home runs from Aaron Judge and Roman Anthony, while Japan also secured their quarterfinal spot.
A Statement Win in Houston
Team USA sent a clear message to the rest of the 2026 World Baseball Classic field on Monday night, defeating Mexico 5-3 at Daikin Park in Houston to improve to a perfect 3-0 in Group B pool play. The victory marked the first time the United States had beaten Mexico in the World Baseball Classic since 2006, and it came in emphatic fashion, with all five American runs scored before Mexico could get on the board.
Skenes Steals the Show
The story of the night was Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes, who delivered a jaw-dropping WBC debut. The young right-hander tossed four shutout innings, striking out seven Mexican batters while touching 99.7 mph on the radar gun. Mexico could manage only a ground-ball double and a walk against him — a performance that underscored why Skenes is already regarded as one of baseball's most electrifying pitchers.
Judge and Anthony Provide the Firepower
Captain Aaron Judge opened the scoring in the third inning with a two-run homer, his second of the tournament. The New York Yankees slugger is now hitting .333 in the Classic with five RBI across three games, cementing his status as the heartbeat of the American lineup. Prospect Roman Anthony then delivered the knockout blow, crushing a three-run home run to right-center that extended the U.S. lead to 5-0 and effectively put the game out of reach.
Mexico rallied in the later innings to make it a 5-3 game, but the Americans held firm. Judge also contributed a crucial outfield assist to snuff out an early Mexican threat, showcasing the two-way impact he has brought to this tournament.
Group B Standings and What's Next
With the win, the United States sits atop Group B with a 3-0 record heading into their final pool game against Italy on Tuesday, March 10. Mexico dropped to 2-1 and must also face Italy to secure their own postseason position. Team USA's roster — featuring stars like Cal Raleigh, Bobby Witt Jr., and Bryce Harper alongside Judge — has looked every bit as formidable as expected.
Tuesday's schedule is packed: Japan face the Czech Republic in an early tip-off, the Netherlands take on Israel, Canada battle Puerto Rico, and the USA close out the evening against Italy.
Japan and the Wider Picture
Meanwhile, defending champion Japan has already clinched a quarterfinal berth from Pool C, posting a 3-0 record powered by superstar Shohei Ohtani and a deep pitching staff. Japan remains the tournament favourite as they chase a fourth WBC title in six editions.
South Korea, the Dominican Republic, and Venezuela have also punched their tickets to the quarterfinals, rounding out what promises to be a fiercely competitive knockout stage. The 2026 World Baseball Classic is scheduled to conclude with the final in Miami on March 17.
A Tournament to Watch
The 2026 edition of the World Baseball Classic is already delivering on its promise of star power and high-stakes drama. With an undefeated USA squad in full flight, Japan defending its crown, and traditional powerhouses like the Dominican Republic and Venezuela in the mix, the road to Miami is shaping up to be one of the most compelling chapters in the tournament's history.
