USA vs Dominican Republic Prediction & Betting Tips - World Baseball Classic

Prediction published on 15/03/2026, 05:06  by Matthew Newman | Modified on 17/03/2026 at 02:23 in World Baseball Classic Predictions

The opening semi-final of the World Baseball Classic will pitch the USA against the Dominican Republic. Paul Skenes is slated to start against Luis Severino in this one, so let’s make a prediction. 

The USA have made another semi-final on home soil, making their way past Canada 5-3 in their quarter-final. They have not been at their dominant best in this tournament, suffering a surprise loss to Italy that saw them only finish second in their Pool.

Skenes made his only other start in the tournament in the game against Mexico, slinging four scoreless to kick that one off. He gave up a hit and a walk while striking out seven. It will be interesting to see how long they let him go here. 

It has been perfection to this point for the Dominican Republic, winners of all five games that they have played. The mercy rule came in after seven innings of their quarter-final as they beat South Korea 10-0.

Severino picked up a win against the Netherlands in Pool play, giving up a single run in the four innings that he worked. Like Skenes, with the maximum pitch count now 95 in the semis rather than 65, he has the capability to go longer.