MIAMI -- In a thrilling matchup between two of the world's baseball powerhouses, Japan has emerged victorious over the United States in the World Baseball Classic. Japan's Shohei Ohtani, the two-way phenomenon, was the designated hitter for the game and took the mound in the ninth inning with the chance to close out a title. In a powerful inning, Ohtani struck out his Los Angeles Angels teammate Mike Trout, sending Japan into a state of pandemonium. The game began with a back and forth battle between the two teams, with the United States taking an early lead in the first inning. However, Japan was able to rally back in the fourth inning and took the lead. The United States was able to tie the game in the sixth inning, but Japan responded with a two-run home run in the seventh inning to take the lead. With the score 4-2 in the ninth inning, Ohtani struck out Trout to secure the victory for Japan. After the game, Ohtani said, "I'm so proud of our team. We worked so hard and it paid off in the end." The victory marks the first World Baseball Classic title for Japan, who have been a powerhouse in international baseball for many years. The United States has won the tournament twice, in 2006 and 2009. The World Baseball Classic is an international baseball tournament that is held every four years. This year's tournament featured 16 teams from around the world, including the United States, Japan, Cuba, Mexico, Canada, and South Korea.