Although single exhibition games had been played in conjunction with five previous Olympics, it was the first time that the sport was officially included in the program, and also the first time that the sport was played in Olympics held in the United States.

Cuba originally qualified but withdrew as a result of the Soviet-led boycott.

Thus, the United States (3–0) played against Korea (2–1), which had a tied record with Japan (2–1) but had lost in head-to-head competition against them.

Since baseball was a demonstration sport, no official medals were awarded.

The winners of the semifinals played each other for first and second place, with the Japanese team prevailing, 6–3.