Italian first baseman Vinny Pasquantino made history. He hit three home runs during Team Italy’s 9-1 win over Team Mexico. It was the first time in World Baseball Classic history that a player hit three home runs in one game, helping Team USA advance to the quarterfinals.
Pasquantino hit his first home run in the top of the second inning against Mexican starter Javier Assad. The solo shot traveled 342 feet with an exit velocity of 101.8 MPH, putting Italy up 1-0.
His second home run was another solo home run, coming in the top of the sixth inning against Mexican reliever Daniel Duarte. It traveled 349 feet with an exit velocity of 95.3 but went through the right field wall at Daikin Park in Houston, Texas. This gave Italy a 6-0 lead.
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In conclusion, Pasquantino’s last extra-base hit was a two-run home run off Mexican reliever Robert Garcia. It was only 337 feet tall and had an exit speed of 90.9 MPH, but it was enough to complete the historic feat. This made the final score 9-1.
Pasquantino’s message to Team USA after the game:
Thanks to this victory, Italy advanced to the quarterfinals undefeated and tied for first place in Group A (Houston) with 4 wins and 0 losses. They are scheduled to play Puerto Rico at Daikin Park on Saturday, March 14th at 3pm ET. Meanwhile, Mexico lost to Team USA in the final quarterfinals of Group B, and Team USA will face Team Canada, the top team in Group A (San Juan). The matchup begins Friday, March 13 at 8 PM ET at Daikin Park.
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