MIAMI – A dominant performance by Dominican Republic ended South Korea’s run in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, as they fell 10-0 in the quarterfinal round on Thursday, March 14th. The loss marks the finish of a celebrated international career for Korean pitcher Hyun-jin Ryu, who announced his retirement from national team competition following the game.
Ryu, a veteran of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) and Major League Baseball (MLB), started for South Korea, facing off against Cristopher Sanchez of the Philadelphia Phillies. Despite a decorated career that included a successful stint with the Toronto Blue Jays, Ryu was unable to contain the potent Dominican lineup.
The Dominican Republic’s offense proved too much for the Korean team, exploding for 13 home runs throughout the first round of the tournament. Sanchez pitched effectively for the Dominican side, adding to the challenge for the Korean hitters.
South Korea’s manager, Ryu Ji-hyun, expressed his confidence in Ryu leading up to the game, stating, “Ryu-hyun is Ryu-hyun, that’s why he’s our starting pitcher. He’s the most reliable card we have.” Still, the Dominican Republic’s powerful hitting ultimately proved decisive.
Ryu had previously spoken about his determination to develop a deep run in the tournament, saying, “I will do my best to make sure this game against the Dominican Republic is not my last wearing the Taegeuk mark, and to be able to pitch three more games to reach the final.”
The defeat for South Korea comes after a similar outcome for Japan, who were also eliminated in the quarterfinal stage. Both teams saw their WBC hopes dashed in Miami.
Despite the disappointing end to their tournament, the South Korean team is scheduled to return home on Saturday, March 15th, on a specially arranged charter flight. Major league players on the roster will remain in the United States following the game.
The game also marked what is expected to be the final international appearance for Los Angeles Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw, who joined Ryu in announcing his retirement from national team play.
