Mar 22 2009
Japan vs USA Semi Final
Shuichi Murata won’t be available for Japan after tearing his hamstring against Korea. The power hitter had three home runs in the WBC and was one of japans major sources of run production. They’ll lean even more heavily on their outstanding starting pitching. Japan should start Daisuke Matsuzaka against the United States on Sunday - Bay Area Baseball will be there!
Team USA will start Roy Oswalt from Houston. Oswalt has been solid but shouldn’t be expected to throw a shutout. The Americans will need to hope for solid performances from relievers Heath Bell, JJ Putz and the rest of the bullpen. Evan Longoria has been added to the roster and should play third base while David Wright DH’s. The game is at 5pm pacific at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. Winner goes to the final.
