Probably still angry over their upset at the hands of the Netherlands, the Dominican Republic came back with a vengeance against Panama, eliminating them with a dominating 9-0 performance.
Johnny Cueto started the game for the Dominican, giving up three hits, walking one and hitting 2 batters while holding the Panamanians scoreless. Julian Tavarez, Rafael Perez, Tony Pena and Pedro Viola all came out of the Dominican bullpen to keep the shutout going.
The big highlights came from Dominican catcher Miguel Olivo, who socked two big home runs in a game it was speculated that he wouldn't start. Olivo made manager Felipe Alou look like a genius, not only calling a good game for Cueto, but also helping the team's cause. Nelson Cruz added a home run himself in the 6th inning, and the Dominicans also made Panama pay for two costly errors.
Slugger Julio Zuleta wore the collar for Panama, going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts.
With the loss, Panama is eliminated from the World Baseball Classic, while the Dominican moves on to take on the loser of the Puerto Rico-Netherlands game.
Johnny Cueto started the game for the Dominican, giving up three hits, walking one and hitting 2 batters while holding the Panamanians scoreless. Julian Tavarez, Rafael Perez, Tony Pena and Pedro Viola all came out of the Dominican bullpen to keep the shutout going.
The big highlights came from Dominican catcher Miguel Olivo, who socked two big home runs in a game it was speculated that he wouldn't start. Olivo made manager Felipe Alou look like a genius, not only calling a good game for Cueto, but also helping the team's cause. Nelson Cruz added a home run himself in the 6th inning, and the Dominicans also made Panama pay for two costly errors.
Slugger Julio Zuleta wore the collar for Panama, going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts.
With the loss, Panama is eliminated from the World Baseball Classic, while the Dominican moves on to take on the loser of the Puerto Rico-Netherlands game.