Australia vs Japan Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Baseball Classic | Pool Stage

Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!

Australia’s 100% record so far in Group C is in severe jeopardy against the juggernaut that is Japan and the legend that is Shohei Ohtani.

Kick-off date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – Not televised / USA – Fox Sports / Japan – Netflix

How to watch online: UK – Not streamed / USA – FOX One / Japan – Netflix

Australia vs Japan prediction

Less than 24 hours after taking on Korea Republic, Japan are right back in action at the Tokyo Domo in what is a big game from their perspective with Australia arguably their biggest competition when it comes to finishing top of Pool C. The Aussies are two from two after Curtis Mead’s three-run shot in the third inning led them to a 5-1 victory against Czechia. Australia’s pitching in particular has been superb with only one run given up so far and when combined with clutch home runs from the likes of Mead and Travis Bazzana, it has led to this fairy tale start at the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

However, Japan are just the team to put an end to that fairy tale. This is a side who notched up an incredible ten-run inning earlier in the tournament vs Chinese Taipei, ultimately ‘mercy-ruling’ them with score 13-0 after seven innings. Shohei Ohtani is looking as formidable as ever, Boston Red Sox outfielder Masataka Yoshida has started well with the bat, whilst both Munetaka Murakami and Seiya Suzuki add additional home-run threats.

Combine that with Japan’s notoriously strong defence and they boast all the ingredients to cruise to yet another win. Although it would be surprise if Australia were to be ‘mercy ruled’ when considering the impressive pitching and defence that we’ve seen from them so far.

Australia vs Japan tip: Japan to win with -5.5 handicap