Since September 23rd, the world’s top Under-23 national teams have been battling it out for the prestigious « World Cup » title, organized by the WBSC (World Baseball Softball Confederation) headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Far from the Swiss Alps, 12 teams packed with baseball’s brightest young stars are battling under September’s scorching sun in western Mexico. Two cities are hosting the competition: Hermosillo in the state of Sonora and Obregon in the neighboring state of Yaquis.
First Round. In Group A, the Czechs (1W-4L) and Germans (1W-4L) gave it their all against the Latin American powerhouses of Mexico’s « Rep-Doc » and Cuba, as well as Chinese Taipei (Taiwan). In Group B, the Netherlands (1W-4L) faced similar challenges against Korea, Nicaragua, Panama, Colombia, and Venezuela … 
The second round, from September 29th to October 2nd, features the « Super Round » (top teams from the first round) to determine the finalists, and the « Placement Group » to finalize the rest of the standings; a group where all European teams have been relegated. In the « Super Round, » Mexico leads the pack with two wins, closely followed by Colombia, Cuba, Panama, and Venezuela, all with a 1-1 record. Taiwan (0W-2L) brings up the rear. In the « Placement Group, » Germany is faring the best for Europe with one victory. Ahead of them, Nicaragua (2W-0L) and Mexico’s « Rep-Doc » (2W-0L) are on a roll. At Germany’s level, Korea (1-1). The Czech Republic (0-2) and the Netherlands (0-2) are in a tough spot.
From September 29th to October 2nd, the Super Round will unfold to crown the finalists. The October 2nd final is shaping up to be a colossal showdown.
Tune in! Vincent Picard
