US, Japan stay on top in world championship

CARACAS, Venezuela — The United States and Japan both won their playoff games in the world softball championship on Wednesday to remain undefeated and in position to reach the finals on Friday. The U.S. defeated Canada 16-1 and Japan, the defending Olympic champion, beat Venezuela 2-0. The United States, which has won this tournament six consecutive times, began its offensive against Canada in the first inning with Alissa Haber doubling, driving in three runs and later scoring herself. The Americans never seemed to slow down. In the second, shortstop Natasla Watley hit a double deep into center field with the bases loaded, driving in two more runs. The Americans scored four more runs in the third to take a 9-1 lead. Third baseman Andrea Duran singled in the fifth to drive in another run. Then Jenny Finch, the team's first baseman, hit an out-of-the-park homer with the bases loaded. Finch said she suspected her blast into left field was going to make it over the wall. "It felt like it had a good chance," she said. U.S. team manager Jay Miller was delighted. "I was real proud the way we came out today," said Miller, praising pitcher Monica Abbott for stopping Canada's offense. "With Monica on the mound, we don't need that many hits," he said. Abbott finished with five strikeouts and one earned run. The playoffs continue Thursday with the final scheduled for Friday. The Americans and Japanese are favored to reach the final, and any other result would be considered a major upset. The United States and Japan are both 8-0 and are also slated to face off on Thursday. "Any time we play Japan, it's a tough game," Abbott said. "We'll be ready for them." Japan defeated the United States in the final game in the 2008 Olympics to take gold. Abbott's pitching arm was wrapped with an ice pack. Miller said he hadn't decided who he'll put on the mound on Thursday, but he said if Abbott was physically prepared she will pitch. Japan beat Venezuela 2-0, taking advantage of poor pitching to maintain its perfect record. Venezuela opener Mariangee Bogado was off the mark throughout much of the game, walking several batters and hitting Ayumi Karino with a pitch. Karino then stole second base and advanced to third off an error by Jineth Pimentel. She scored the first run off a hit by Satoko Mabushi. Designated hitter Mabushi later hit a fly that Jineth Pimentel couldn't handle, allowing Eri Yamada to score a second run and put Japan further ahead. China edged Taiwan 1-0 which eliminated them from the tournament. Catcher Jia Guo scored China's winning run. Australia got past the Netherlands 3-2, as Justine Smethurst gave up only four hits and two earned runs during seven innings. Despite its loss, Venezuela remains alive and will play China on Thursday. Canada takes on Australia. – AP