RP Blu Boys Hope to Recover After Stumbling in World Cup Opener
By Marlon Bernardino
PhilBoxing.com
Thu, 13 Jun 2024
The RP Blu Boys succumbed to the Dominican Republic, allowing them two home runs, resulting in a 2-5 loss for the Filipinos in their first game of the 18th WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup group stage on Thursday morning (Manila time) at Estadio Mundialistas Hermosillenses in Mexico.
Juan Arias initiated the scoring for the Dominicans with a solo home run off 18-year-old Filipino starting pitcher Jehanz Coro in the top of the second inning, giving his team a 1-0 lead. The Dominican Republic extended their lead in the fourth inning when Yoel De Mota hit a two-run double, bringing home Arias and Wilton Robles for a 3-0 advantage. Pablo Figuereo then added to the score with a home run to right-center, also scoring De Mota, making it 5-0.
The Cebuana Lhuillier-backed team had several opportunities but struggled to convert base runners into runs. The Blu Boys scored their first run when Justine Rosales hit a double, allowing Mark Gaspi to score, making it 1-5. However, Norwen Lucas was tagged out at home trying to follow Gaspi. Rosales reached third base but was unable to score as Denmark Bathan and Israel Antonio struck out. In the sixth inning, Lucas’ single brought Gaspi home, narrowing the gap to 2-5.
ASAPHIL President Jean Henri Lhuillier expressed optimism despite the loss, saying, "The development of our team has been remarkable, and I have full confidence that the Blu Boys will bounce back stronger. These initial setbacks are part of the learning curve, and I believe our team will perform better in the upcoming matches."
Under the guidance of coach Jasper Cabrera, the Philippines began their campaign with a 0-1 record in Group A, which also featured defending champion Australia, Venezuela, Czechia, and host nation Mexico in the same bracket. The Blu Boys aim to bounce back in their next match against Australia, currently ranked 2nd Worldwide, on June 13, 2024 at 18:00 (UTC-7) after Australia’s 0-7 defeat to Venezuela.-Marlon Bernardino-
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Marlon Bernardino.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
Highland Boxing Promotions Presents "Warrior Showdown" in Bangkok on June 27
By Carlos Costa, Thu, 25 Jun 2026Usyk reportedly considering retirement but could face Kabayel before the year ends
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Thu, 25 Jun 2026Luke Littler and Ben Whittaker join forces as Matchroom Sport takes over New York City
Thu, 25 Jun 2026IOC Announces $10,000 'Fit for the Future' Grant for All Qualifying Olympians, Including Boxers
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Thu, 25 Jun 2026Boxers did it first: IBA President welcomes IOC’s decision on allocating funds among athletes
Thu, 25 Jun 2026PH national now ready for Asia-Oceania Sambo
By Lito delos Reyes, Thu, 25 Jun 2026UFC TITLE CHALLENGER IAN MACHADO GARRY JOINS MATCHROOM TALENT AGENCY AS EDDIE HEARN LAUDS 'SUPERSTAR' SIGNING
Thu, 25 Jun 2026Round 12 with Mauricio Sulaimán: The Fathers in the boxing world
By Mauricio Sulaimán, Wed, 24 Jun 2026Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan arrive for Asia & Oceania Sambo Tournament
By Lito delos Reyes, Wed, 24 Jun 2026Mexican Hall of Fame Legend Carlos Zarate undergoes surgery in Mexico
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Wed, 24 Jun 2026IM Arca to see action in 28th Asian Youth Chess Championships 2026 in Shenzhen,China
By Marlon Bernardino, Wed, 24 Jun 2026Lenar Perez to Face Former Two-Time World Title Challenger Thabiso Mchunu, with Fendero-Fondjo as Co-Feature on September 3 in Montreal!
Wed, 24 Jun 2026Gustavo Trujillo'S Remarkable Journey Continues as Reigning Bkb Heavyweight Champion Climbs the Pro Boxing Ranks
Wed, 24 Jun 2026AMER ABDALLAH APPOINTED ADVISOR TO THE KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN BOXING FEDERATION
Wed, 24 Jun 2026Youth Sports Sambo on June 25
By Lito delos Reyes, Wed, 24 Jun 2026