The 2009 World Baseball Classic was the second edition of the international baseball tournament, held from March 5 to March 23, 2009. It featured 16 teams from around the world, competing in a series of games to determine the best national team in baseball. The tournament was designed to promote the sport globally and included teams from countries like Japan, United States, and Dominican Republic. Japan emerged as the champion, successfully defending their title from the inaugural tournament in 2006. They defeated South Korea in the final, held at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California. The event showcased the growing popularity of baseball and highlighted the talent of players from various nations.