WBC First Round Group C Japan vs. Australia (8th, Tokyo Dome)

Samurai Japan allowed the first run due to a disappointing bad throw by Orix Buffaloes catcher Kenya Wakatsuki.

With the score at 0-0, it was the sixth inning and there was one out and a runner on second base. Whitefield attempted to steal third base, but Wakatsuki's throw went wide towards the gap between third and shortstop, allowing Whitefield to score in one go. He skillfully led starter Sugano to a good pitch that day, and he also allowed one hit and one Walk. He had shown his presence, but this was a costly mistake.