Carlo Rivero delivered an unforgettable performance, striking out 11 batters while allowing only one hit and hitting a two-run homer, leading Team USA to a 6-0 victory over Cuba in the 2024 WBSC Americas U-12 Baseball Championship semifinals. This marks the team’s sixth consecutive win and their fourth shutout at Estadio Nacional Rod Carew, propelling the U.S. U-12 team to their ninth championship final in 11 years. Team USA will face the Dominican Republic in the final on Saturday, with the first pitch set for 12:00 p.m. local time.

Carlo Rivero’s Outstanding Performance

Despite some offensive pressure from Cuba, Rivero kept his cool, securing his second win of the week without allowing a single run. After holding the opponent scoreless in the first inning, Rivero needed just 45 pitches to complete the next three innings. A highlight was his ninth-pitch strikeout, his 11th of the game, before handing the game over to the bullpen.

Key Contributions from Team Members

Jayden Portes and Adam Gonzalez also played key roles in the win. Rivero’s early two-run homer, his second of the week, gave Team USA an immediate lead. Gonzalez, playing second base, added to the score with his third RBI of the week, while the third inning showcased strong teamwork as players executed sacrifice hits to widen the lead.

Game Stats

Rivero pitched 4.2 innings, allowing only one hit, striking out 11 Cuban players, and conceding just three walks. He also went 2-for-3 at bat with two runs scored and two RBIs. Jack Mattingly and Josh Pierre contributed by stealing bases, each going 1-for-3 in their at-bats.

With their ticket to the 2025 WBSC U-12 Baseball World Championship now secured, Team USA is setting its sights on clinching this year’s Americas title.