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During the top of the fifth inning in the World Baseball Classic finals, USA strung together a rally to put a little -- but not really a lot -- of breathing room between it and Puerto Rico. Hereâs how it went down:
- Ian Kinsler led off with a single (remember, he homered earlier).
- Adam Jones drew a walk.
- Christian Yelich singled to right to drive home Kinsler. Here it is.
- Now, Nolan Arenado is badly struggling, but he is still the cleanup hitter and, you know, Nolan freaking Arenado. Still, he attempted a bunt and the lead runner was nailed at third.
- Eric Hosmer would ground into a fielderâs choice, but since he wasnât doubled off first, the inning would continue ...
- Andrew McCutchen would single home Yelich, making it 4-0 USA. This play was notable because McCutchen hit a pretty normal single, but Puerto Rican shortstop Francisco Lindor made an incredible, diving play to keep the ball in the infield and take a shot at McCutchen at first. Still, Cutch was far enough down the line that it wasnât overly close.
Also, through six, USA starting pitcher Marcus Stroman hasnât allowed a hit on 68 pitches. Heâs allowed to throw 95 pitches this round.