Japan eliminated by Venezuela in WBC quarterfinals

Shohei Ohtani and Japan’s quest to defend their World Baseball Classic title ended in the quarterfinals, losing to Venezuela 8-5. Despite Ohtani’s third home run of the tournament, Venezuela rallied with key homers from Maikel Garcia and Wilyer Abreu, the latter hitting a decisive three-run shot. With this victory, Venezuela advanced to the semifinals and secured a spot in the 2028 Olympic baseball tournament alongside the U.S. and Dominican Republic.

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