2013 World Baseball Classic

The first round is over. Big names went down (Mexico, Canada, Venezuela, Korea) and underdogs rose up (Netherlands, Italy). Powerhouses like the USA and the Dominican Republic looked impressive, as did Japan and Cuba. A lot of well-known MLB players didn't show up, but some did along with international stars who are studs in their own leagues.

So, who are the individual winners and losers so far in this year's classic? 

After barely surviving the opening round of the 2013 World Baseball Classic, the United States is back in action on Tuesday night against Puerto Rico to begin Pool 2 play. The game highlights a three-game schedule for Day 11.

Who would have known that Canada vs. Mexico would have become the most heated rivalry in the World Baseball Classic?

All hell broke loose in the ninth inning of a World Baseball Classic game between Canada and Mexico on Saturday. 

Both benches cleared for the brawl, and play was delayed for around 10 minutes. There were fights taking place all over the field, and seven players were ejected, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale:

Seven players ejected from Mexico-Canada game and discipline under review #wbc

The 2013 World Baseball Classic has officially entered its second week. Twelve countries were still alive coming into Saturday's action in what's been a thrilling first round.

Day 8 began with a high-stakes second-round clash between Cuba and Chinese Taipei. But it will be highlighted by four first-round games from Pools C and D, including the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Venezuela and the United States, among others.

Team USA didn't get off to the best of starts at the World Baseball Classic. In a sizable upset, Mexico won 5-2 to earn their first victory of the tournament after losing their opener to Italy 6-5. 

In a tournament that doesn't afford much room for error and slip-ups, this was a huge blow for Team USA. Considered one of the favorites for the tournament, they'll certainly need to improve their performance going forward if they want to advance to the second round. 

After a disappointing 5-2 loss to Mexico (box score via MLB.com) in its World Baseball Classic opener on Friday night, Team USA needs Brandon Phillips and Giancarlo Stanton to step up in order for the team to advance.

The United States continues World Baseball Classic play with a matchup against Italy. Expectations were low for the Italian squad coming into the event, but it's already proven to be a formidable opponent the Americans can't afford to overlook.

After some disappointing finishes in the first two WBC tournaments, it's important for the United States to bear down and take care of the opponents it should beat this time around. Italy falls into that category despite a couple of solid showings.

The first week of the 2013 World Baseball Classic is in the books, and four countries have already advanced to the second round while four others have been eliminated from the 16-team field.

While Japan looks to be in cruise control yet again, other favorites like Venezuela and the United States have fallen behind quickly, each dropping their opening games. The good news for both nations is that there's a whole lot of baseball still left to be played.