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Japan's 9-0 WBC Win Over Czechs: Murakami's Grand Slam Shines

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Defending champion Japan dominated the Czech Republic 9-0 in their final World Baseball Classic Pool C game at the Tokyo Dome. The victory completed a perfect 4-0 run in pool play for Japan, while the Czech team finished winless at 0-4 despite a strong pitching performance.

Japan's offense exploded for nine runs in the eighth inning after being held scoreless for seven frames. The rally featured key contributions from Teruaki Sato, Ukyo Shuto's three-run homer, and Munetaka Murakami's grand slam. Czech starter Ondrej Satoria kept Japan quiet for 4 2/3 innings with his crafty pitching, mixing soft stuff in the 68-75 mph range.

Japan rested star Shohei Ohtani ahead of the quarterfinals in Miami, denying Satoria a rematch after striking him out in 2023. Czech manager Pavel Chadim, who doubles as a neurologist, wore his team's 2025 European championship bronze medal to emphasize their professional approach despite all players having day jobs.