Austin Wells’ Game-Ending Homer Sends Dominican Republic to Semifinals

Austin Wells' only swing of the bat advanced the Dominican Republic to the World Baseball Classic semifinals. Wells hit a game-ending three-run homer in the seventh inning Friday night to help the Dominican Republic defeat South Korea 10-0 and advance to the WBC semis.

Wells' homer was the Dominicans' 14th of the tournament, tying Mexico's record set in 2009. Wells, who also homered in Sunday's 12-1 pool victory over the Netherlands, blasted a first-pitch cutter from Hyeong Jun So off the front of the second deck to right. "Trying to win today and be able to move to the next round was the goal," Wells told the crowd. "It was a lot of fun to be able to help out and participate today. Definitely a special occasion."

Star-Studded Lineup and Team Performance

With a lineup of stars including Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Fernando Tatis Jr., Wells has quickly adjusted to the team. And, when the star sluggers did their damage without the long ball against South Korea, it was Wells who went deep.

The homer also tied Wells with Soto, Guerrero, Tatis, Junior Caminero and Oneil Cruz. “The experience has been incredible. It’s been an unbelievable honor being able to represent my family and the country of the Dominican,” said Wells, who was born in Arizona to a mother of Dominican descent. “It’s something that I’m never going to forget and hopefully I’ll have the opportunity again.”

During its power barrage through the first four games, the Dominicans have displayed viral-worthy bat flips and exuberant group celebrations when they complete their trot around the bases. But Wells has been more subdued. “I haven’t been one for big bat flips in my career,” Wells said. “I’m taking notes. A lot of the times I just black out when I hit a home run. It’s been hard for me to show some sort of emotion. Maybe next time.”

Dominican Republic Eyes Another Title

The Dominicans reached the semifinal round for the first time since the tournament championship game in 2013. Now, they will have the opportunity to move past Mexico and claim the homer record as their own — and move a step closer to another title — when they face the United States on Sunday in Miami.

“This is something special for us because we are a very united team, compact team,” Caminero said. “You can feel the emotion, the energy in the clubhouse. We work as a team. This is something very special to us. Now we have to focus on the next rival on Sunday, and to continue playing like we have been doing so far.”

Related: Read also: USA Beats Dominican Republic to Reach WBC Final Again, Caminero Sets Dominican Republic WBC Home Run Record, and US WBC Quarterfinal in Doubt After Shock Loss to Italy.