Puerto Rico advances to quarterfinals of WBC after win over Dominican Republic

March 15, 2023 - 10:59pm

Puerto Rico's Francisco Lindor second from right, celebrates with teammates after he scored on a fielding error by Dominican Republic center fielder Julio Rodriguez during the fifth inning of a World Baseball Classic game. (Wilfredo Lee/AP)

Puerto Rico has booked their spot in the quarterfinals of the World Baseball Classic with a 5-2 win over the Dominican Republic.

With the loss, the Dominican Republic is knocked out in the group stage despite being among the favourites to win the tournament.

Puerto Rico will move on to face Mexico, the winner of Pool C. The Dominican Republic finished third in the group, while Venezuela won the group with a perfect 4-0 record.

A four-run third inning helped Puerto Rico to the win, highlighted by Francisco Lindor's inside-the-park home run.

However, a moment of celebration turned into a frightening moment for Puerto Rico closer Edwin Diaz after the pitcher appeared to suffer a serious leg injury following the team's win over the Dominican Republic at the World Baseball Classic.