Puerto Rico strike first but fall to hosts Japan
Yuko Kishida introduced the final game of Day 1. The First Lady of Japan's Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida, officiated the ceremonial first pitch.
The game was highlighted by the stellar pitching duel between Yomiuri Giants ace and Club Championship finals MVP Kana Onodera of Japan and Double-A Women's League best pitcher Janiliz Rivera of Puerto Rico.
All the runs scored happened between the third and fourth innings, with World No. 1 Japan taking the win over No. 9 Puerto Rico, 4-2.
Puerto Rico struck first in scoring two runs in the top of the third. Onodera allowed back-to-back walks to lead off the frame. Star shortstop Adriz Paradizo singled to get Puerto Rico ahead, and a second run scored on a wild pitch.
Puerto Rico loaded the bases with one out on the third walk of the inning and a single by second base Eva Torres. Onadera got out of the jam with back-to-back strikeouts.
Japan reversed the lead in the bottom of the fourth, starting with first base Yuki Kawabata hitting a one-out single and recording the first Japanese hit. Right fielder Miwa Naraoka brought her to second with another single. Designated hitter Akari Hoshikawa bunted for the hit to load the bases. Catcher Tamaki Muramatsu followed with a two-RBI single.
Ashikawa advanced to third and Japan squeezed her in with a perfect bunt by Kae Iwami. Third base Ayaka Deguchi hit a two-out single mounting a 4-2 edge for Japan.
Onodera wouldn't allow other scoring chances. She threw a complete game, striking out 12 for the win.
"I don't feel like celebrating the 12 strike outs, since I allowed two runs," said the young star.
Onodera made her debut in a Women's Baseball World Cup:
"I really felt emotional. I was very nervous when I made the field. My teammates helped me relax. I didn't start the game the way I wanted, but I'm glad we could win it."
Japan will play No. 16 France to finish the second day. Puerto Rico will face No. 7 Cuba in the afternoon game.