TOKYO. Australia’s debut in the 2026 World Baseball Classic had a standout protagonist: Travis Bazzana. The Guardians’ prospect and first overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, hit a crucial home run in the seventh inning, extending the lead and leading Australia to a 3-0 victory over Chinese Taipei this Thursday at the Tokyo Dome.
Bazzana’s hit, which surpassed the right field fence, silenced a large part of the fans present in the stadium, who enthusiastically supported Chinese Taipei. It was strange. When I hit the home run I expected to hear a big cheer, but the stadium was very, very quiet.The two things I thought about most growing up were playing in the World Baseball Classic, especially here at the Tokyo Dome, and someday playing in a World Series in the Major Leagues. It’s something very special.
Travis Bazzana
Perkins Imbalances the Match
The score remained tied until the fifth inning, when catcher Robbie Perkins broke the tie with a two-run home run, giving Australia the lead. Perkins had already had memorable moments in this stadium, connecting a decisive three-run home run against Korea in 2023.Every time you put on your country’s uniform, emotions intensify, but I try to remain calm and remember that there’s a job to be done. This is a team effort.
Robbie Perkins
Domain From the Mound
Australia had a solid performance from three left-handed pitchers, who combined to pitch three scoreless innings.Opening pitcher Alex Wells struck out six batters in three innings, including five consecutive strikeouts, tying for the third-best streak in World Baseball Classic history. Jon Kennedy closed out the game with three innings of relief, extinguishing the threat in the ninth inning when Chinese Taipei put the tying run on the plate. His height of 6 feet 8 inches was crucial in catching a batted ball back to the mound and securing the victory.
I think his height influenced the last out. Not many players would have been able to get up and catch that ball.
Dave Nilsson, Australian manager
Australia Isn’t Surprised
The victory comes against a high-level rival: China Taipei is the current champion of the Premier12 and the number two team in the world ranking. However, in the Australian clubhouse, the result is not seen as a surprise.We have built the conviction that we can beat anyone in a single game. In a 162-game season it may be different, but in a direct duel we can compete with anyone.
Robbie Perkins
Delicate Situation for Chinese Taipei
The defeat puts Chinese Taipei in a difficult situation in the group. The team will face Japan in its next match, a rival reinforced with Major League stars.Meanwhile, Australia will continue its participation in the tournament, facing the Czech Republic in its next match.Tomorrow’s game will be a great challenge. Japan is probably the best team, but we will give everything on the field.
Hao-jiu Tseng, coach of Chinese Taipei
