The World Baseball Classic Qualifiers began at the Taipei Dome in Taiwan on Feb. 21. An unexpected result occurred when Spain defeated Chinese Taipei 12-5.
Spain jumped out ahead 4-0 early in the game. However, Chinese Taipei cut their lead in half, making it 4-2 in the third inning.
Spain’s six-run fifth inning set Chinese Taipei back big-time. Despite scoring three more runs down the stretch, they could never recover.
So, what went wrong for the host team in their opening qualifier?
Although Chinese Taipei gave up 15 hits to Spain, they recorded 11 hits themselves and drew six walks.
However, an astounding 13 runners were left on base. Taipei was not good at hitting with runners in scoring position (RISP), as they were 3-14 as a team in those scenarios.
The pitching also had its issues as well. Chinese Taipei went through nine different pitchers in this game. Only two of their arms that made appearances gave up no hits. The Taipei starter, Yu-Hung Chen, went only one inning before exiting the game.
In fact, Yu Lu was the only reliever out of the eight that pitched for Chinese Taipei to last longer than 1.1 innings.
The lack of timely hits in scoring chances and quality pitching led to a tough loss for Chinese Taipei against Spain.
What Game is Next?
Chinese Taipei’s next game in the World Baseball Classic Qualifiers will be against South Africa in the Taipei Dome. The first pitch is scheduled for 6 a.m. E.T.
South Africa is also coming off a loss in their first qualifier against Nicaragua. Both teams will be looking for their first win.
Every game can be streamed on Youtube and Facebook.
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