Key Takeaways
- The Italy vs Venezuela WBC semifinal attracted attention due to Italy changing its pitching plan just before the game.
- Italy chose Aaron Nola as the starting pitcher, shifting from their initial plan to use Michael Lorenzen.
- Italy arrived unbeaten in the tournament, winning five consecutive games, marking their best performance in World Baseball Classic history.
- Venezuela announced Keider Montero as their starting pitcher for the semifinal matchup against Italy.
- The winner would face Team USA in the championship game after they defeated the Dominican Republic.
The Italy vs Venezuela WBC semifinal became the focus of attention after Italy changed its pitching plan shortly before the game. Italy selected right-handed pitcher Aaron Nola as the starting pitcher for the World Baseball Classic semifinal. The matchup took place on March 16 at loanDepot Park in Miami. The winner of the game would advance to the championship round of the tournament.
Italy originally considered using Michael Lorenzen as the starting pitcher. Team officials later decided to start Nola instead. The adjustment was made close to game time. Officials evaluated multiple pitching strategies before confirming the decision.
Italy changes pitching plan before semifinal
The Italy vs Venezuela WBC semifinal prompted Italy to review its rotation plans. One option involved saving Lorenzen for the championship game if Italy advanced. Another option involved using both pitchers during the semifinal.
Aaron Nola had already delivered a strong performance earlier in the tournament. In a game against Mexico, he pitched five scoreless innings. That outing showed his effectiveness during the competition.
Michael Lorenzen also played an important role in Italy’s run. He started the game against the United States during pool play. Lorenzen pitched four scoreless innings in that matchup.
Italy arrives unbeaten in the tournament
Italy entered the Italy vs Venezuela WBC semifinal with a perfect record. The team won five consecutive games during the tournament. The performance marked the strongest World Baseball Classic showing in the country’s history.
Italy competed in Pool B during the group stage. The team defeated Brazil and Great Britain early in the round. Italy later recorded victories over Mexico and the United States.
The win against the United States gained significant attention. Italy built an eight-run lead early in the game. The United States attempted a late comeback. Italy held on for an 8–6 victory.
Venezuela sets pitcher for the matchup
Venezuela also announced its starting pitcher for the Italy vs Venezuela WBC semifinal. Right-handed pitcher Keider Montero was selected to begin the game for Venezuela.
The semifinal determined the final opponent for the championship game. Team USA had already secured a place in the final. The United States advanced after defeating the Dominican Republic in the other semifinal matchup.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/sports/italy-pivots-rhp-aaron-nola-wbc-semis-vs-venezuela–flm-2026-03-16/