The United States have closed the gap to Japan in the world rankings ©Getty Images

United States have closed the gap on Japan at the top of the men's world rankings after their victory at the World Baseball Classic.

The Americans triumphed in the 16-team tournament after defeating Puerto Rico 8-0 on home soil at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.

Their win on March 22 means they now have 5,378 points in the latest rankings released by the World Baseball Softball Confederation.

Japan, beaten by the Americans in the semi-finals, still lead the way on 5,699 but the gap is now just 321.

Five continents are represented in the top 10 with the first seven countries remaining unchanged.

South Korea sit third despite a group stage exit at the World Baseball Classic, in front of Chinese Taipei and Cuba respectively.

Israel have climbed 22 places after their impressive showing ©Getty Images
Israel have climbed 22 places after their impressive showing ©Getty Images

Mexico, Australia, Venezuela, Australia, The Netherlands and Canada follow in that order.

Puerto Rico's runners-up finish has seen them climb a spot to 11th, while Australia's position is the highest they have ever been in the rankings after they came ninth at the Classic. 

Israel are the big movers in the standings after climbing an impressive 22 places to number 19 in the world.

The country made their debut at the Classic and enjoyed shock wins over four top 10 countries - Chinese Taipei, South Korea, Cuba and The Netherlands.

They eventually finished sixth.