USA vs. Japan: Clash in the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup Final

OKINAWA, Japan – The stage is set in Okinawa Cellular Stadium for an epic showdown as Team USA squares off against Japan in the highly anticipated title game of the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) U-18 Baseball World Cup. Fans can mark their calendars for this thrilling contest, with first pitch scheduled for 4:00 p.m. JST (3:00 a.m. ET) on Sunday.

Pitching Matchup

In what promises to be a captivating duel on the mound, Team USA will rely on right-hander Coleman Borthwick, who has been a standout throughout the tournament. He’ll face Japan’s crafty left-hander Ryosuke Sueyoshi, a fierce competitor known for his ability to disrupt a batter’s rhythm.

History Against Japan

The storied rivalry between Team USA and Japan at the U-18 level is rich in history. Currently, Team USA boasts a 7-5 record in 12 all-time matchups against Japan, making this contest not just a title game but a chance for redemption following Japan’s 6-2 victory in an earlier Super Round game this year. Notably, six of their previous contests have been decided by three runs or fewer, underscoring the competitive nature of this matchup.

Previous Championship Encounters

Notably, Team USA and Japan have met in the World Championship Game on two occasions. The first, in 2013, saw Brady Aiken lead Team USA to a narrow 3-2 gold medal win. Two years later, on the heels of another tense matchup, pitcher Nick Pratto delivered a stellar performance in a 2-1 victory, cementing the USA’s status as a force in youth baseball. Sunday’s clash marks the second gold medal game between these two powerhouses held in Japan, mirroring the 2013 event.

Team USA celebrates after winning a gold medal at the 2015 WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup in Osaka, Japan

Last Time Out

In their most recent outing, Matthew Sharman showcased his talent by tossing six scoreless innings against Puerto Rico, leading Team USA to a decisive 7-0 victory in the Super Round finale. Sharman’s masterful performance included managing three double plays, and he lowered his tournament ERA to an impressive 0.70.

The offensive fireworks were ignited by Borthwick, who continued his hot streak with two hits, paired with a game-high two RBIs from teammate Brody Schumaker. The team’s lineup was an offensive juggernaut, with six hitters collecting multiple hits.

A Familiar Face in Championship Games

This year’s final marks Team USA’s 17th appearance in the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup gold medal game. With a historical record of 10-6 in such encounters, the USA is just shy of tying Cuba for the most championship appearances. In fact, the last gold medal game in which they were involved saw them defeat Chinese Taipei 5-1 in 2022.

Dominating Statistics

American players have consistently been adept at the plate, leading the World Cup with a team batting average of .319 through the first eight games. The U.S. team also boasts the highest on-base percentage (OBP) at .447 and leads in several categories, including runs scored (53) and walks (39).

On the mound, USA’s starters have been nearly untouchable, accumulating a minuscule 0.17 ERA over eight starts. With a total of only one earned run allowed in 40 innings pitched, they have struck out 50 batters while conceding a mere 14 hits. Such dominance shines through their ability to limit extra-base hits – they’ve only permitted one in their tournament performances.

Shutout Records on the Line

Team USA has recorded five shutouts over the course of the tournament, just one shy of tying the program record of six set by the 2017 squad. That team notched its sixth shutout in the gold medal game against Korea, adding pressure as this current roster aims to replicate such success.

Speed on the Bases

U.S. outfielder Anthony Murphy has been a key contributor on the base paths, boasting six stolen bases—the second most in the tournament. Murphy’s agility is complemented by his two multi-stolen base games, showcasing his impact in critical moments.

Standout Hitters

The championship game will feature some of the tournament’s best hitters, including Team USA’s Aiden Ruiz, who leads with 11 hits. Following closely behind are Japan’s Hyuma Okabe with 10 hits, and both Borthwick and Japan’s Kazuki Takahata with nine hits apiece. Expect to see these players shine under the spotlight as they battle for the title.

Coleman Borthwick had five hits in a five-at-bat span against Korea and Puerto Rico

The Roster

Team USA’s 20-player roster reflects a blend of experience and youthful talent. Comprising five USA Baseball alumni and ten players with national team development experience, the team is built for success. Notably, Grady Emerson becomes the first player in USA Baseball history to participate on two 15U and two 18U National Teams.

With meticulous preparations and stellar performances leading up to this final face-off, Team USA looks to reclaim its place atop the world in youth baseball as they take on Japan for the championship.