The promise of the World Baseball Classic has been realized.

There’s so much passion on display. From the players, from the fans, from the broadcasters. It truly is a classic.

Venezuela stunned all-star-studded Dominican Republic 5-1 behind three strong innings from Martin Perez.

The United States took care of Great Britain 6-2 on the strength of a Kyle Shwarber three-run homer, and two doubles and two RBIs from Nolan Arenado.

Cuba and Korea bounced back to win games they pretty much had to win.

The top two teams in each pool move on. Here are the standings.

The games have been fun, the crowds have been into it. The glory and beauty of baseball is on full display. It’s the best tonic for baseball starved fans.

*****

TODAY’S GAME:

Texas @ Seattle, 3:10