Japan powers into Classic semis

Ohtani's fastest pitch

This browser does not support the video element. Shohei Ohtani K's Vinnie Pasquantino with a career-best 102 mph heater in the 2nd inning March 16, 2023

Japan on the board

This browser does not support the video element. Masataka Yoshida grounds out to shortstop, plating Kensuke Konoh to give Japan a 1-0 lead in the 3rd March 16, 2023

Okamoto goes yard

This browser does not support the video element. Kazuma Okamoto lifts a 3-run homer, extending Japan's lead to 4-0 in the 3rd March 16, 2023

Fletcher steps up

This browser does not support the video element. Dominic Fletcher flares a 2-run single, cutting Italy's deficit to 4-2 in the 5th March 16, 2023

Murakami delivers

This browser does not support the video element. Munetaka Murakami doubles in Ohtani as Japan goes up 5-2 in the 5th March 16, 2023

Okamoto stays 🔥🔥

This browser does not support the video element. Okamoto hammers a double, giving him 5 RBIs on the day and upping Japan's lead to 7-2 in the 5th March 16, 2023

Yoshida keeps it going

This browser does not support the video element. Masataka Yoshida cranks a solo homer as Japan extends its lead to 8-2 in the 7th March 16, 2023

Fletcher gets a run back

This browser does not support the video element. Fletcher smacks Italy's first homer of the Classic, an 8th-inning solo shot off Yu Darvish March 16, 2023

On to the semis

This browser does not support the video element. Taisei Ota strikes out Sal Frelick looking, sealing Japan's 9-3 victory over Italy March 16, 2023 Total Classic coverage