The 2023 World Baseball Classic has officially come to an end with Team Japan knocking off Team USA in a nail-biter. The championship didn't disappoint by any means. Team Japan became only the second team in WBC history to complete a clean sweep in the tournament.
In the top of the 2nd, Trea Turner blasted his fifth WBC home run, continuing his impressive run, giving Team USA and early 1-0 lead. It didn't take long for Team Japan to answer back, as in the bottom of the 2nd, Munetaka Murakami blasted a solo shot to tie things up at one.
Heading into the bottom of the 4th, game tied 1-1, Kazuma Okamoto hits a 2-run shot that seemed to deflate Team USA quite quickly. It wasn't until the top of the 8th, that Kyle Schwarber added to Team USA's lead. Hitting a solo home run a long way, cutting Team Japan's lead down to one.
Every baseball fan wanted to see what unfolded in the bottom of the 9th. There was speculation it would happen, but it seemed a bit unlikely. Team Japan's Shohei Ohtani pitching against Team USA's Mike Trout. Teammates in the MLB, foes in the WBC. Two of the best players in the game, face to face. Ohtani ended up striking out Trout on an 87-mph pitch that sealed the game for Team Japan.
This championship game didn't disappoint. The 2023 World Baseball Classic was exploding with talent. The two powerhouses of the tournament were there right to the end. Team Japan sent their countries best hitters and pitchers, Team USA sent their best hitters. It's been the headline for Team USA all tournament long. Nobody expected their pitching to hold up as long as it did. However, Team USA showed heart and passion for playing for their country and shouldn't be disappointed. Players will now go back to their respective ball clubs and get ready for Opening Day as the season approaches.