Mark DeRosa Addresses Controversial Strike After Semifinal Game – 'Dominicans Are Upset'

Mark DeRosa (Image Credits: Imagn)

Mark DeRosa Addresses Controversial Strike After Semifinal Game – 'Dominicans Are Upset'

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Heena Singh | Last updated Mar 17, 2026 12:43 PM ET

Tension was already towering tall, and then one pitch changed everything. World Baseball Classic sure gave us all the drama, but this time, it also came with controversy that refused to fade in peace. Team USA’s manager Mark DeRosa received plenty of criticism during this stint.

The USA edged the Dominican Republic 2-1 in a semifinal thriller on March 16, 2026, at loanDepot Park. With the tying run in scoring position, a borderline full-count pitch to Geraldo Perdomo was called strike three, ending the game instantly. Replays suggested the ball missed the zone, sparking outrage across fans, analysts, and players.

That’s where Mark DeRosa stepped in postgame after he was slammed by the ex-Marlins President for continuous blunder. He addressed the backlash while backing his guys, as reported on March 16, 2026, by ESPN Deportes.

“I can understand why the Dominicans are upset about it, but that ball had a lot of the plate and Will [Smith] does a hell of a job framing back there.”

Mark DeRosa (Image Credits: Imagn)

DeRosa didn’t dodge it, but acknowledged the frustration and credited catcher Will Smith for elite framing. In a game dominated by pitching, that tiny edge made the difference. Still, with no ABS system in place, the debate likely isn’t going anywhere.

Mark DeRosa One Game Away From Redemption as Venezuela Eyes Historic First WBC Title

Nine innings left. 27 outs. That’s all that stands between DeRosa and a full-circle redemption story at the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Mark DeRosa (Image Credits: Imagn)

It’s crazy how quickly things changed. Team USA went from that Italy loss and lineup chaos in pool play to knocking off the Dominican Republic with its best group on the field. Now, as reported on March 17, 2026, by World Baseball Network, Mark DeRosa is one win away from rewriting the narrative.

On the other side, Omar Lopez has Venezuela chasing history. First-ever final, first real shot at a title. So it’s simple: redemption vs. legacy. One game decides which story sticks.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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