Mackay Softballer Riley James Clinches U-23 World Cup Title in Argentina after standing tall with game winning catch.

With his winning catch in the shutout against Japan at the under-23 World Softball Championships, Riley James secured his place as one of the most decorated softballers in the country.

Mackay's Riley James continued his winning streak after taking home the under 23 world Softball Championship in Argentina, and was then named amongst the team of the tournament. Picture: Softball Australia

Mackay’s softball sensation, Riley James, has etched his name in the history books by capturing the Under 23 World Softball title in Argentina.

The world watched on as James, who was appointed the team’s vice-captain, played a pivotal role in the Australian squad’s journey to become the inaugural WBSC U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup champions.

The tournament featured 12 countries competing in a round-robin competition.

After a shaky start, the Aussies won 4-0 over Canada in the semis to secure their spot in the gold medal game.

Their journey to the final wasn’t easy, as they faced the Japanese side during the `Super Round’ of the competition, where they suffered an 8-1 loss.

But the Australian team remained unfazed, and their eventual 1-0 shutout in the gold medal match against Japan made their victory all the more emotional.

James, who was named the third baseman in the world team of the year, made the winning catch in the shutout against Japan, showcasing his incredible fielding skills.

The match was a thriller, with both teams putting up a tough fight however it was the Australian southpaw, Jack Besgrove, who led his team to victory with his masterful pitching performance, pitching a complete-game shutout with 11 strikeouts.

With the game on the line, the pressure was immense, but Mackay‘s Riley James rose to the occasion, making the game-closing catch that secured Australia’s historic first-ever U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup title.

It was a moment of pure elation for James and his teammates, and one that will be etched in the memories of the team and fans for years to come.

The victory was even more special as it was the third consecutive face-off in the final between Australia and Japan in the age-group Softball World Cups. They played for the title in the Junior Men’s Softball World Championship 2018 and the U-18 Men’s Softball World Cup 2020.

James, who is now one of the most decorated softballers in the country, spoke about the team‘s tight bond and teamwork that led the way for their success at the U-23 World Cup.

For James, his selection into the men‘s senior side for this year’s WBSC Men’s Softball World Championships almost seemed inevitable after a stellar junior career where he claimed a world title in the under-19s and captained the Australian under-18 men’s team.

Now, James has not only helped his team win the inaugural WBSC U-23 Men‘s Softball World Cup title but also brought home a second world open title in New Zealand in 2022.

The 20-year-old has become a role model for young aspiring softballers, proving all dreams are achievable with hard work and dedication.

As he sets his sights on playing competitive baseball in America this winter, there is no doubt that James will continue to inspire future generations of softballers.