Canada falls to Panama after costly errors in World Baseball Classic
Canada’s World Baseball Classic journey in Pool A took a hit with a 4-3 loss to Panama after initially leading 2-1. A chaotic sixth inning marred by defensive errors allowed Panama to score three runs. With a record of 1-1, Canada needs victories in upcoming games to stay in the tournament.
Canada’s path in Pool A of the World Baseball Classic became more complicated Sunday after a 4-3 loss to Panama at Hiram Bithorn Stadium.
The Canadians appeared in control with a 2-1 lead before a sloppy sixth inning allowed Panama to score three runs and take the lead. The rally was highlighted by defensive miscues, including a key error by Josh Naylor.
Canada now sits at 1-1 in the group standings, behind Cuba and Puerto Rico, who both improved to 2-0 before meeting later in the tournament.
“We have to win and let the math take care of the rest,” manager Ernie Whitt said. “Our backs are against the wall now. We know what we need to do.”
Panama capitalizes on chaotic sixth inning
The turning point came in the sixth inning when Panama took advantage of several defensive breakdowns.
After James Paxton walked leadoff hitter Jose Ramos, Edmundo Sosa’s deep drive was knocked down by the wind. A routine relay throw from Abraham Toro to first base was dropped by Naylor, allowing the inning to continue.
Panama followed with a series of infield plays that loaded the bases before Ruben Tejada’s grounder drove in the tying run. Another run crossed after a relay throw home was cut off, and Enrique Bradfield Jr. added another infield hit to push Panama ahead 4-2.
The three-run inning came without a ball leaving the infield.
“I’ll take the blame for that loss,” Naylor said. “I should have caught that baseball. The little things win games.”
Cienfuegos keeps Canada quiet
Panama received strong relief pitching from left-hander Miguel Cienfuegos, who was born in Laval, Quebec.
Cienfuegos retired Canada quickly in the sixth inning on just seven pitches and followed with a scoreless seventh.
The left-hander, whose parents are from Panama, said the matchup carried special meaning.
“It was definitely mixed emotions,” Cienfuegos said. “This game had been circled on my calendar for months.”
Canada rallies late but falls short
Canada managed to cut the deficit in the eighth inning.
Owen Caissie doubled to center field, driving in Bo Naylor to make it 4-3. The Canadians threatened again in the ninth when Josh Naylor singled and stole second base, but Jared Young struck out to end the game.
Canada finished the night 2-for-10 with runners in scoring position, including a missed opportunity with the bases loaded in the fifth inning.
“We had a chance to break the game open earlier,” Whitt said. “You have to play clean baseball in this tournament, and we didn’t.”
What’s next for Canada
Canada will have Monday off before facing host Puerto Rico on Tuesday, with Jordan Balazovic expected to start on the mound.
Pool A play concludes Wednesday when Canada meets Cuba. Despite the loss, the team still has a path to the quarterfinals, though little margin for error remains.
