Tonight was a prime example of what has been expected out of Team USA's offense as they beat the brakes off the from up North. The U.S. cruised to an easy victory over Canada after just seven innings, due to the tournament’s 10-run mercy rule.
You almost have to feel for Canada's starting pitcher, 19 year old Mitch Bratt. Mitch was only able to record one out, as he was thrown to the wolves against this juggernaut of an offensive lineup. He struggled to find the strike zone, allowing 3 hits, 3 walks, and 6 runs (162.00 ERA)...hang in their young fella.
R.J. Freure relieved Bratt in hopes to stop the bleeding and keep the game in check early. However, Freure relief effort had him bleeding out and needing a stim pack like he was in Call Of Duty Warzone. Freure allowed three runs in the 1st having the US leading 9-0 after 1, and another three runs in the second, having you think let's just get to the run rule already.
I spoke about it earlier today, that the USA lacked depth in their starting pitching, and needed a big start from Lance Lynn. Although he may look like the MLB's version of Phil Kessel, Lynn took the mound tonight and gave the US just what they needed, five innings of two hit, one run ball, finishing with 6 K's.
Some quick offensive notes. Team USA continues to be led by St. Louis Cardinals duo Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado. Tim Anderson remains dialed in, hitting .571 in two games and a 2-3 performance (2 runs scored, 1 RBI). Captain America, Mike Trout cranked a 3 run homer in the first to make it 9-0. Trea Turner also got in on the party, hitting a solo shot to make it 12-1.
Mets fan can stop reading, as Pete Alonso has yet to record a hit so far, as well 2022 NL batting champ, Jeff McNeil, hitting only .125 and was used as a defensive replacement.
Team USA is back at it Wednesday night against Columbia (10pm EST), as they look to control their destiny and advance out of pool play with a win. Quickly putting my manager hat on, I would put TA7 (Tim Anderson) in the leadoff spot to set the table early on for Trout, Goldschmidt, and Arenado. See ya Wednesday night.