The Aussie Steelers have wrapped up their 2025 WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup Finals campaign in Prince Albert, Canada, showcasing determination, talent, and flashes of brilliance across five intense matchups on the world stage.

In a tournament where every game mattered and margins were razor-thin, Australia battled fiercely against the best in the world, ultimately finishing seventh overall. The campaign was full of learning moments and standout efforts - none bigger than Riley James being named to the All World Team, a massive recognition of his impact on the global stage.

Steelers Head Coach Michael Titheradge acknowledged the team’s mixed emotions upon returning to Australian soil:

“The Aussie Steelers’ arrival on home soil following the 2025 WBSC Men’s World Cup Finals was met with mixed emotions. Whilst a 7th place finish was not what the team was searching for, small confidence is drawn from the belief our program is still very much aligned in terms of being competitive amongst the other seven best countries in the world competing for World Cup victory.”

Titheradge cited key factors that shaped the campaign:

“Injuries and pitching depth hampered our campaign, and faced with the newly adopted WBSC format, the Steelers simply weren’t good enough when it mattered most.”

“With every campaign we anticipate a thorough review to take place to ensure future results are improved upon across all areas of the high-performance program.”

Tournament Highlights

Game 1: USA Sets the Tone
A tough opener saw the Steelers fall to a dominant USA team (10-0), but not without bright moments. Besgrove struck out 7, and Riley James broke up a no-hitter with a booming double.

Game 2: Statement Win Over Dominican Republic
Australia hit back in style with a 9-2 win. Patterson smashed a three-run homer, Besgrove dominated with 11 Ks, and multiple bats fired, including James, Kronk, and King.

Game 3: Fighting Spirit vs Japan
Despite a 2-11 loss, the Steelers took it to Japan early with RBIs from Beashel and Todhunter, showing real fight in a high pressure matchup.

Game 4: Instant Classic Against Argentina
One of the tournament’s best games, a 7-5 win featuring homers from Field, Patterson, and Kronk. Harrow’s three hits and two stolen bases were game-changers.

Game 5: Learning vs Canada
Facing a red-hot Canada, the Steelers went down 2-14. Beashel stood out going 2-for-2 with a walk, and Bradbury added an RBI. Another big-game test to cap a hard-fought campaign.

Eyes Forward: THE World Games in Chengdu

Finishing 7th in the world, the Steelers proved they can match it with anyone on their day. With valuable experience under their belt and stars like Riley James continuing to shine, the team now turns its attention to the 2025 World Games in Chengdu (6–10 August).

Let’s go, Steelers. Bring on Chengdu!