(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
USA Defeats Japan to Win WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup 2025
Okinawa, Japan – In front of a packed crowd of 16,693 fans at Cellular Stadium, Team USA shut out Japan 2-0 to win the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup 2025 presented by RAXUS.
With this victory, the USA secured their 11th U-18 Baseball World Cup title, tying Cuba as the most successful nation in tournament history. It also marked the USA’s 28th medal in 32 editions, underlining their dominance at the youth level.
Coleman Borthwick Shines on the Mound
Right-hander Coleman Borthwick delivered a masterful performance, going the distance and allowing only three hits while striking out key batters. His effort kept Japan scoreless throughout the final.
“I just wanted to stay ahead with strikes and mix it up when needed,” Borthwick said after the game. “They never really proved they could hit my fastball, so I stuck to my game plan.”
Not only did he pitch a complete game, but Borthwick also hit third in the lineup, proving his all-around talent.
Key Moments in the Game
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Fourth Inning Breakthrough: Brody Schumacher reached base and scored the first run thanks to Jaden Jackson’s swinging bunt.
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Fifth Inning Insurance: Aiden Ruiz advanced to third and crossed home plate on Schumacher’s sacrifice fly, giving USA a 2-0 lead.
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Defensive Spark: Ruiz also made a spectacular diving catch in the third inning, turning a double play that shifted momentum in USA’s favor.
Managerial Reactions
USA Manager Rick Eckstein praised his team’s effort:
“It was a true team win. Coleman pitched great, and our defense and timely hitting carried us through. Japan played an excellent tournament, but we came here to win it all, and I’m proud of these guys.”
Japan’s Manager Masayoshi Ogura showed respect for Team USA, stating:
“They played powerful baseball and set a great example for us. We will continue to aim higher and improve.”
Tournament Recap
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USA handed Japan their first loss of the tournament, avenging a 6-2 defeat in the Super Round.
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With this win, USA has now beaten Japan four times in the U-18 Baseball World Cup Finals (1982, 2013, 2015, and 2025).
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Chinese Taipei claimed the bronze medal earlier in the day with a win over Korea.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup once again showcased the best young talent in the sport. With a combination of dominant pitching, sharp defense, and smart hitting, Team USA proved why they remain a powerhouse in world baseball.
Fans will now eagerly look forward to the next edition, as these young stars take their first steps toward professional careers.
