Venezuela got a major reprieve in the World Baseball Classic.
After thinking they had been eliminated with an 11-9 loss to Mexico early Monday, Venezuela players were informed in the clubhouse that they still could advance, thanks to a tiebreaker.
Despite the victory, Mexico was eliminated. Venezuela played Italy in a one-game tiebreaker Monday night, with the winner advancing to the second round. The game ended too late for this edition.
Venezuela rallied for an 11-10 victory over Italy in 10 innings Saturday.
Mexico, Italy and Venezuela all finished 1-2 in the first round of pool play behind Puerto Rico, which went 3-0.