Beltre’s three-run homer helps Dominican Republic win

By Steve Ginsburg

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Florida (Reuters) – Adrian Beltre hit a
three-run homer to help the Dominican Republic defeat Italy 8-3
on Thursday to inch closer to a berth in the second round of
the World Baseball Classic.

The Seattle Mariners third baseman launched a massive shot
over the center field wall to give the Dominican Republic a 7-3
advantage in the fifth inning.

Moises Alou added another run in the seventh with a solo
homer deep to left field.

The Dominican Republic, who now have a 2-0 record in Pool
D, will conclude the opening round against Australia on Friday.

Italy (1-2) are out of the competition.

The Italians went 1-0 ahead in the top of the first inning
on a run-scoring single by Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Frank
Catalanotto.

Their opponents countered with two runs in the bottom half
of the frame, Jose Reyes and Placido Polanco racing home
following a throwing error by Italy third baseman Mark
Saccomanno.

Italy countered with two runs in the third, taking a 3-2
lead on back-to-back, run-scoring doubles from Frank Menechino
and Catalanotto.

The Dominican Republic replied in the bottom half of the
inning, grabbing a 4-3 lead when Albert Pujols launched a deep
two-run homer that flew over the wall.