PHOENIX — Randy Arozarena had two doubles and drove in five runs, Rowdy Tellez added a two-run single and solo homer, and Mexico beat Canada 10-3 Wednesday to earn a spot in the quarterfinals of the World Baseball Classic.
Canada had a chance to advance to the quarterfinals for the first time with a win. Instead, the Canadians were eliminated after pool play for the fifth straight tournament.
Canada played without Los Angeles Dodgers star first baseman Freddie Freeman, who left Tuesday's game because of a hamstring injury. Prince George's Jared Young took Freeman's spot at first base and went 0-4 at the plate, striking out twice.
"I think we have some really good young players that are coming. I think inexperience showed a little bit today," Canada manager Ernie Whitt said.
"But I'm proud of every guy in that room. They played the game the way it was supposed to be played. They played with pride and passion. What more can you ask for?
"I mean, we hit the ball hard today. Every time we hit the ball hard, it seemed like it was at somebody. We have days like that, it just didn't pan out for us this time."
The United States defeated Colombia 3-2 later Wednesday, leading to Canada's elimination.
The Canadians finished pool play at 2-2 with wins over Britain and Colombia and losses to the U.S. and Mexico.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 15, 2023.
The Canadian Press
