The energy at Daikin Park Monday night is something far greater than a typical group-stage matchup, as the World Baseball Classic’s most heated rivalry takes center stage with first place in Pool B on the line.

Both the United States and Mexico entered the showdown showdown with unblemished 2-0 records, but history — and the bad blood of 2023 — looms large over the diamond.

For Team USA, the game is as much about redemption as it is about seeding. In their last WBC meeting three years ago, Mexico delivered a stunning 11-5 drubbing in Phoenix, an offensive onslaught led by Joey Meneses that sent shockwaves through the tournament and forced the Americans into a difficult road to the final.

Now, the narrative has shifted to the Lone Star State. Both rosters have looked utterly dominant through their opening frames in Houston, but only one can seize a stranglehold on the group. The winner tonight secures more than just bragging rights; they earn a direct, favorable path into the quarterfinals and the psychological edge of having silenced their greatest rival on the world stage.

The Sporting News brings you the live box score from the game as both teams look to take ownership of Group B.

MORE: Live updates on USA vs. Mexico World Baseball Classic game

USA vs. Mexico baseball box score

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Mexico stats

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