Pimentel guides Venezuela to win over Australia; two homers lift Dominican Republic over Philippines. Mexico earn five-inning win against Czechia

With an exciting Group A Opening Day, the WBSC XVIII Men’s Softball World Cup started today in Hermosillo, Mexico. In Game 1 of the competition, Venezuela defeated Australia, 7-0, with a very strong performance from Maiker Pimentel. At Mundialistas Hermosillenses stadium, the Dominican Republic started on the right foot beating Philippines, 5-2, in a very important game. In Game 3, hosts Mexico earned a key win over Czechia, 7-0, in five innings, in front of a sellout crowd at Fernando Ortiz.

Pimentel tossed an absolute gem in Game 1 of the WBSC Men's Softball World Cup Group A to lead Venezuela to a 7-0 win over Australia. The right-handed pitcher pitched the complete game, giving up three hits and one walk, against 12 strikeouts. In addition, he displayed his athleticism making two spectacular defensive plays. 

After this impressive performance, Pimentel was named the Player of the Day.

A great pitching performance by Yan Carlos Gonzalez lifted the Dominican Republic to their first Men's Softball World Cup win in seven years. The Caribbean squad defeated Philippines, 5-2, in Game 2 of the competition.

Gonzalez pitched seven quality innings, striking out 13 while giving up six hits and one run. Jonni Suriel was responsible for the Philippines' second run. Juan Arias and Pablo Figuereo homered for the Dominican squad.

For the Philippines, Jehanz Coro was charged with the loss. The 18-year-old pitcher worked four innings, allowing five hits and five runs, with seven Ks.

In the last game of the day, Mexico put together a strong offensive performance with 11 hits and seven runs in five innings of play. Carlos Parra tossed four scoreless innings with two hits and six strikeouts. Jordan Solorio carried the offence with a homer and four RBIs in the game.