Korea vs. Dominican Republic: Can Lee Jung-hoo Lead South Korea to the WBC Semifinals?

[Sports Today reporter Lee Sang-pil] This isn't a high school-versus-pros matchup — it's a showdown between each country's top players.

Lee Jung-hoo laid down the gauntlet ahead of South Korea's clash with the Dominican Republic.

Managed by Ryu Ji-hyun, South Korea's national baseball team will meet the Dominican Republic on the 14th (Korean time) at 7:30 a.m. at LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida, in the 2026 World Baseball Classic quarterfinals.

South Korea flirted with elimination in the group stage but staged a dramatic comeback to finish second in Group C, reaching the WBC quarterfinals for the first time in 17 years. They aren't content with that milestone. Riding momentum from the group round, Korea aims to topple the Dominican Republic and punch its ticket to the semifinals.

The Dominican Republic arrive as one of the tournament favorites, stacked with Major League superstars. They swept Group D to reach the quarters and boast a fearsome lineup that includes Manny Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Juan Soto. The Dominicanes announced Christopher Sanchez — last year's runner-up for the National League Cy Young — as their starter against Korea.

At the official press conference a day before the game, captain Lee Jung-hoo said, \"As everyone knows, Sanchez was one of last year's top pitchers. I've faced him before — he's very tricky and tough to handle. For our players to come here and compete against a top pitcher is a huge asset and an honor.\" He added that both he and Jamai Jones have shared their firsthand experiences of facing Sanchez with the rest of the squad.

Lee continued, \"I watched yesterday's Dominican Republic–Venezuela game in person and felt the electric, almost home-like atmosphere for the Dominican team. How we perform under that overwhelming energy will be crucial. We'll prepare thoroughly through scouting and analysis and give it our all.\"

Most analysts favor the Dominican Republic — and for good reason, given their talent. Still, Lee Jung-hoo remained unfazed.

\"When you face players you used to watch on TV, their reputations can be intimidating and differences can show,\" he said. \"But we're all professional ballplayers. This isn't high school versus pro — it's adults against adults, each country's best players.\"

Finally, Lee said he often tells his teammates not to leave any regrets, and he plans to repeat that message tomorrow. \"I hope that when tomorrow comes, we won't regret today. I want us to approach the game with that mindset,\" he said.


[Sports Today reporter Lee Sang-pil sports@stoo.com]
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