World Baseball Classic officials have decided not to further punish Canadian or Mexican players for a bench-clearing brawl.

Tensions boiled over in the 9th inning of Saturday's game when Canada's Rene Tosoni was hit by a pitch. The Mexicans had been upset about Canada running up the score, although run differential is a potentially important tie-breaking statistic at the WBC.

The verbal jousting escalated into a full-fledged fight that included players such as centre-fielder Tyson Gillies & reliever Jay Johnson exchanging punches with Mexican players.

3 Canadian & 4 Mexican players were ejected with Canada winning by a score of 10-3.

World Baseball Classic Inc. released this statement:

"We are extremely disappointed in the bench-clearing incident that marred the conclusion of today's game between Canada and Mexico. The episode runs counter to the spirit of sportsmanship and respectful competition for which the World Baseball Classic has stood throughout its history.

Because at least one club, and potentially both, will not advance to the second round, WBCI has determined that disciplinary measures would not have a meaningful corrective impact. Thus, discipline will not be imposed beyond today's seven game ejections.

It is our firm expectation that the members of Team Mexico, Team Canada and all the tournament's participating teams will learn from this incident and set a better example one that befits the sport
they share in the future."

The Canadians can advance to the 2nd round for the 1st with a win over the United States Sunday.

(With files from the Canadian Press, photo from The Associated Press)