The 2009 World Baseball Classic!

 Venezuela   2  Puerto Rico  0

Only a good coach can show and tell his players how to utilise what they have got - in terms of physical and mental abilities - to their best advantage at the right time and it is my personal opinion that Luis Sojo, the Venezuelan manager, has the know-how and the experience to deliver what is required to take his team to the next level and bring home the bacon. Having said that last night's headlines belonged to young hurler Felix Hernandez and Ramon Hernandez as the former became the king of the mound at Dolphin Stadium in Miami as he punched out seven batters and conceded no runs in 4 and 2/3 innings and the latter added fuel to the excitement when he hit a gargantuan two-run homer over the center-field which ultimately was good enough to put the game to bed. Venezuelan reliever Francisco Rodriguez powerful throwing was also a big plus in a game where sensible pitching was required. Certainly, the sun has yet to set over the 2009 World Baseball Classic but Venezuela is still in it as it booked its place in the semi-finals which will take place in the city of angels. Final score: Team Venezuela   2  Team Puerto Rico 0.

P. Figueras