The 2026 World Baseball Classic has already lived up to the hype, but tonight's semifinal between the United States and the Dominican Republic could end up being one we remember for a long time.
Two star-studded lineups will go head-to-head in what could be the most thrilling matchup of the tournament so far. Below, we'll get you ready for the game with the World Baseball Classic Semifinal odds and a preview between the United States and Dominican Republic.
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United States vs Dominican Republic Odds
Courtesy of Lucky Rebel
Moneyline: USA (-133) | Dominican Republic (+101)
Runline: USA -1.5 (+127) | Dominican Republic +1.5 (-170)
Total: Over 9.5 (-121) | Under 9.5 (-109)
United States vs Dominican Republic Preview
Heading into this tournament, my pick to win the whole thing was the Dominican Republic. It's impossible to ignore the stardom that makes up their lineup – just stud after stud.
The concern I had, however, was their lack of firepower on the mound, and that's why I'd be a bit wary of their chances tonight.
Luis Severino will take the bump for the Dominican Republic. He delivered a quality outing against the Netherlands in pool play, allowing one run on three hits while striking out five across four innings.
Still, it appears the 32-year-old's best days may be behind him. In two of his last three seasons, he's posted an average ERA of 5.59. Last year with the Oakland Athletics, Severino recorded a 4.54 ERA and a 4.63 xFIP across 29 games, finishing with an 8-11 record.
Sure, Severino is capable of putting together a solid outing from time to time, but putting faith in him to do so against this United States lineup is a bit concerning.
What's even more daunting is the arm he'll be opposing. Cy Young winner Paul Skenes will take the mound for Team USA.
This will be the toughest lineup Skenes has faced in the tournament, but it's also the best pitcher the Dominican Republic has seen so far.
Last season, Skenes went 10-10 with the Pittsburgh Pirates while posting a 1.97 ERA and a 3.03 xFIP. In pool play, he threw four innings against Mexico, striking out seven while allowing just one hit and no earned runs.
The Dominican Republic leads the WBC with a 1.090 OPS, but much of their damage may end up coming against the United States' bullpen later in the game.
I would consider playing the first five innings under five runs (-110), but having to rely on Severino makes that wager a bit uneasy.
Ultimately, I'll just look forward to sitting back and enjoying the amount of talent taking the field on one diamond.
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