The day is upon us. The World Baseball Classic semifinal matchup between the United States (USA) and the Dominican Republic. It is the most anticipated baseball game of the year, and it’s March 15. The Dominican Republic showcases one of the best lineups of all time, with several All-Star/MVP caliber players. However, the USA has a one-man wrecking crew of its own in the form of Paul Skenes, who will get the start against the D.R. Opposing Skenes will be Luis Severino.
There’s so much to unpack for this game, but it’s hard to look past the challenge that Skenes will face top to bottom of the Dominicans’ lineup. Names like Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., Julio Rodriguez, Junior Caminero, Ketel Marte, and Geraldo Perdomo.
However, the USA’s lineup isn’t full of slouches. With some of the premier sluggers across the baseball world (Aaron Judge, Kyle Schwarber, Cal Raleigh, Bobby Witt Jr.), this game could be decided by one big swing on either side. Let’s get into some of the game details and predictions for the WBC semifinal between the USA and the D.R.
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How to Watch USA vs. Dominican Republic
This game could very well serve as the placeholder “championship” for this WBC event. The winner will go on to face the winner of Italy and Venezuela. Although there have been several upsets during this WBC, it’s hard to imagine a world where either USA or the DR loses in the final.
The first pitch between the USA and the DR is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET, and the game will be broadcast on FOX and its affiliates.
Location: LoanDepot Park, Miami, Florida
USA vs. Dominican Republic Odds
GettyPaul Skenes was one of the first players to commit to Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic last year, motivated by his college career at Air Force.
There has certainly been no lack of criticism that Team USA has faced on its WBC run to the semifinals, but the betting market reflects how close this semifinal match has the makings to be.
Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook, and are subject to change:
Moneyline: Team USA: -134 ($134 bet wins $100), Dominican Republic: +112 ($100 bet wins $112)
Spread: Team USA: -1.5 (+122), Dominican Republic: +1.5 (-150)
Run total: O 8.5 (-140), U 8.5 (+114)
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USA vs. Dominican Republic WBC Semifinal Prediction
Prediction: It would be lame to get the objective route and take either over or under on the run total in this game, so that’s not an option.
Real prediction: Dominican Republic has too much firepower in their bats. Once Team USA has to dip into the bullpen, the power in this game might start to reveal itself. If Team USA can’t get up by at least a run or two with Paul Skenes still in the game, the game might really start to open up after he’s removed.
Team USA should have no issues with Luis Severino, but it’s fair to note that Italy’s Michael Lorenzen did just carve up the USA lineup pretty easily.
In what will likely be a game that comes down to the ninth inning, I’d bet the Dominican Republic to advance to the WBC final.
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USA vs. Dominican Republic Predictions, Odds, How to Watch WBC Semifinal Matchup