The 2019 Premier12 started on Saturday with two first-round games at the Pool in Guadalajara, Mexico. The United States blew by the Netherlands 9-0. The team of manager Scott Brosius scored in four of the first five innings and led 7-0 after five frames. Cody Ponce and four relievers combined for a two-hit shutout.
Rob Cordemans allowed three runs (2 ER) on three hits in three innings to take the loss. Lars Huijer, Diegomar Markwell, Mike Bolsenbroek and Jim Ploeger also pitched for the Dutch. Hendrik Clementina and Sharlon Schoop managed the two lone hits for the Netherlands. Meanwhile Robert Dalec hit a grand slam for the US squad. Drew Walters, Jordon Adell and Brent Rooker also went deep.
In the second game on opening day Mexico defeated the Dominican Republic 6-1. Four runs in the third gave Mexico the lead. Esteban Quiroz provided all four with a grand slam. Efren Navarro and Matthew Clark also hit home runs. Geraldo Perdomo scored the lone run for the Dominican team. Humberto Castellanos earned the win in relief. Enny Romero took the loss. The game was called after six innings due to inclement weather.
All info about the Premier12 can be found at www.wbsc.org.