The Philippines kept its strong momentum in the SEA Games men’s baseball competition after dismantling Malaysia in a swift 21-0 victory on Monday, December 8, at the Queen Sirikit Baseball Stadium. The win marked another mercy-rule result for a squad determined to defend the gold it last claimed in 2019.

A five-run opening inning immediately signaled the Filipinos’ intent before they erupted for eight more in the second frame. That early surge allowed the Philippines to take full control and remain flawless at the midway point of the seven-team field in Pathum Thani.

The team scored heavily despite producing only 11 hits, capitalizing on Malaysia’s 11 walks and three errors. The matchup ended after five innings under the 15-run mercy rule, underscoring the Filipinos’ disciplined approach in a tournament where every win matters.

Momentum builds as Philippine bats overpower competition

Head coach Orlando Binarao credited the group’s mentality, emphasizing that they treat each outing like a championship game. He said maintaining urgency is crucial to regaining the gold medal, especially with stronger opponents waiting deeper in the schedule.

Liam de Vera delivered four RBIs in the rout, giving ample support to winning pitcher Clarence Caasalan. The right-hander struck out six across three innings to shut down Malaysia’s offense and extend the Philippines’ string of convincing victories.

The team previously routed Indonesia, 14-0, and Singapore, 17-3, with both wins also ending early via the mercy rule. The steady buildup makes the next two assignments more meaningful as the competition toughens.

Vietnam test comes before showdown with host Thailand

The Philippines faces Vietnam next, a matchup viewed as a final tune-up before the highly anticipated clash with Thailand. The hosts are expected to field several Thai-American and Thai-Japanese players, making the duel a potential preview of the gold-medal fight.

Binarao noted that both teams are preparing heavily for each other, knowing the eliminations will determine the hierarchy heading into the medal round. The single-round eliminations conclude Thursday, with the top two teams advancing to the gold-medal game on Friday.