PANAMA CITY, Panama – The USA Baseball 12U National Team emerged victorious at the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier this past weekend, securing a thrilling 14-7 win over the Dominican Republic to clinch the gold medal. This triumph not only marked back-to-back titles for Team USA but also ensured their place in the 2025 WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup in Taiwan.
Among the exceptional players was Hudson Bills from Menifee. Making his debut during the tournament’s second game, Bills pitched 1.1 flawless innings against Mexico, maintaining a perfect 0.00 ERA. His performance was instrumental in helping pave the way for Team USA’s eventual gold medal victory.
The tournament took place in Panama City, Panama, from October 20-26, where Team USA faced fierce competition from across the Americas. The squad traveled with high hopes, having previously dominated the 2023 World Cup Qualifier with a gold medal win in Aguascalientes, Mexico. This year, with renewed vigor, the team aimed to uphold their winning legacy.
First-time manager Bryan Madsen led the team with poise and determination, supported by a dedicated coaching staff featuring Roger Wright, Wes Brooks, and Josh Ellison. Despite a challenging day of rain delays that forced the final game to move locations, Team USA’s focus and determination remained unshaken. The players showcased their skills across two different fields in a marathon six-hour match against the Dominican Republic, leaving no doubt about their championship potential.
In the final game, Team USA’s offense was relentless, scoring in each inning, which kept the pressure on their opponents. The American lineup demonstrated their prowess at the plate, taking full advantage of every opportunity to score. This offensive strength was complemented by a defense that held strong, sealing the victory and ensuring the Dominican Republic’s only defeat of the tournament.
The victory extends Team USA’s impressive record in international competitions, adding another gold medal to their growing collection. With seven golds and nine overall medals in just eleven years, the team’s achievements are a testament to the robust training and development programs led by USA Baseball.
This tournament also served as a platform for young talents like Hudson Bills to shine on the international stage. Players from across the United States, including California, Florida, and other states, came together to represent their country and build friendships that will last a lifetime.
USA Baseball continues to foster the development of baseball talent nationwide, working tirelessly to maintain the sport’s popularity and accessibility. For more information on the organization, its national teams, and development-driven initiatives, visit the official website – USABaseball.com or USABDevelops.com. Fans can also follow along with the action by following @USABaseball12U on X and @USABaseball on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
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