Seth Lugo, who started the game on the mound for Puerto Rico, was pulled after allowing two walks and three hits, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Italy took an early 3-1 lead before Lugo was pulled out of the game, and ended the first inning with a 4-1 lead.

Elsewhere, Team Italy prevented an early exit for the U.S. by routing Mexico. Both Canada and Puerto Rico advanced out of Pool A.

HOUSTON, TEXAS — Team Italy’s highly successful showing at the World Baseball Classic (WBC) has been fueled by a red-hot offense so far. Italy, after all, is not only a perfect 5-0 — including an impressive 8-6 victory over heavily favored Team USA in pool play — but it has scored a whopping 40 runs during its five games.