The United States started the World Baseball Classic with a loss against Mexico. Dodgers' first baseman Adrian Gonazalez led the Mexican offense going 1-2, with a two-run home run and three walks. Giants' closer Sergio Romo got the save in a hitless ninth inning, recording a strikeout.
The United States had very high hopes for this team, but after their opening day loss, realized that anything short of two consecutive wins from here on out would prevent them from advancing to the second round.
USA manager Joe Torre called on Giants' starting pitcher Ryan Vogelsong to take the mound Saturday against Italy. Vogelsong allowed six hits and two earned runs in four innings, while striking out four.
Ryan Vogelsong compared the start to "a postseason atmosphere."
He made it very clear before the start that he was extremely proud to put on a USA jersey. After the games he said:
"It was fun. It was everything I thought it was gonna be."
Although Vogelsong struggled early, allowing Dodgers' Nick Punto to score on a wild pitch in the first inning, he settled down and got through four. He was happy with the way he turned it up when he needed to.
"I just got a little angry and just tried to turn it up a little bit more, and I was able to do that."
When Vogelsong's four innings were up, he handed the ball to his San Francisco teammate Jeremy Affeldt. Affeldt made quick work of the Italian hitters, striking out one in a scoreless and hitless fifth inning.
Mets' third baseman David Wright was the best offensive threat for team USA, going 2-5 with a grand slam.
Team USA will play a "win and advance" match today vs. Canada. With both teams at 1-1, the winner goes through to the next round while the loser goes home.
Texas Rangers starting pitcher Derek Holland will take the ball for USA, and will face the Pittsburgh Pirates' 21-year-old top prospect, flamethrower Jameson Taillon.
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