Italy vs USA Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Baseball Classic | Pool Stage

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Italy faces the ultimate challenge of maintaining their 100% record in Pool B as they take on USA.

Kick-off date/time:

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

How to watch online: UK – Cannot be streamed / USA – Fox ONE / USA – Netflix

Italy vs USA prediction

USA took on Mexico around 24 hours ago, but immediately swing back into action in Houston for what is their final Pool B match. Italy so far have won two from two, beating the two pool strugglers in Brazil and Great Britain to guarantee their entry into the next World Baseball Classic. But here, they are looking to secure the ultimate prize, qualifying for the quarter-finals and shocking the USA would put them in a position to do just that.

It's worth noting that New York Mets rookie Nolan McLean will start for the United States, their weakest of the four USA Pool B starters on paper. But the batters should cover for any pitching deficiencies and ensure that the USA get the job done in this one, beating the Italians by a sizeable margin even if Mark DeRosa rotates his starting line-up.

Italy vs USA tip: USA to win with -5.5 handicap