#world_baseball_classic

Padres Notebook: Tatis Jr. Starting at Second Base for First Time in MLB Career SAN DIEGO — The San Diego Padres made a notable adjustment to their lineup on April 10, 2026, as all-star outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. took to the field for the first time in his major league career at second base. The decision, announced by manager Craig Stammen before the third game against the Colorado Rockies, marked a bold shift for Tatis, who had previously only played second base during spring training and in a brief ninth-inning appearance against the Phillies in 2023. This move raised questions among fans and analysts, as Tatis had not yet gained significant experience at the position in live games. Stammen explained that the decision was part of a contingency plan developed during spring training, in case starting second baseman Jake Cronenworth suffered an injury. While the manager acknowledged the practicality of the plan, he emphasized that Tatis had not had the opportunity to fully prepare for the role due to his participation in the World Baseball Classic. “He didn’t do a ton in spring as he was at the WBC, but Fernando loves taking ground balls almost every day,” Stammen said. “He did it all last season.” Despite the lack of formal preparation, Stammen expressed confidence in Tatis’ ability to adapt, though he admitted the transition would not be perfect. “You know, will he be perfect, like the best second baseman of all time? He might be but you never know. You know we’ll see but I’m not that worried about Fernando Tatis Jr. playing second base.” The decision to place Tatis at second base instead of his usual shortstop position sparked further intrigue. Shortstop, where Tatis had played since 2019, had been his primary role until 2021, when he was moved to center field.#world_baseball_classic #san_diego_padres #craig_stammen #fernando_tatis_jr #jake_cronenworth

Dodgers 2026 Bullpen Preview: Edwin Diaz Joins Elite Core The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to have a full-time closer for the first time since 2021 as they prepare for the 2026 season. The team’s acquisition of All-Star reliever Edwin Díaz during the offseason addresses a long-standing issue that hindered their bullpen in 2025. First-year closer Tanner Scott struggled after signing a multi-year deal, leading the Dodgers to shift Japanese rookie Roki Sasaki into the role in October. Díaz, a dominant closer with the New York Mets, returns to the majors after declining the final two years of his $102 million, five-year contract. Over seven seasons with the Mets, he posted a 2.36 ERA, 2.12 SIERA, and 2.15 FIP, along with a 40.8% strikeout rate and 8.9% walk rate. He recorded 144 saves in 332 appearances, establishing himself as one of baseball’s premier closers. Despite turning 32 this season, projections from FanGraphs anticipate a 2.92 ERA and 2.90 FIP across 66 innings for Díaz in Los Angeles. With the Dodgers’ star-studded roster, he is expected to surpass his 28 saves from 2025. Díaz missed most of the Cactus League action due to participation with Team Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic but has since returned to Camelback Ranch. His presence in the bullpen provides stability, as the Dodgers’ 2025 team ranked 10th in the league with 25 blown saves. Manager Dave Roberts expressed relief at having a reliable 9th-inning option, citing Díaz’s track record of success. Tanner Scott, the team’s previous closer, faced significant challenges in his first season with the Dodgers. After a stellar 2024 campaign with a 1.75 ERA and 28.6% strikeout rate, Scott struggled in 2025, posting a 4.74 ERA, 4.70 FIP, and 11 blown saves. His 25.#world_baseball_classic #los_angeles_dodgers #edwin_diaz #tanner_scott #roki_sasaki

Dodgers Hire Clayton Kershaw As Special Assistant Clayton Kershaw has returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers in a non-playing capacity, joining the organization as a special assistant in their front office. The move was reported by Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, who noted that Kershaw, a future Hall of Famer, will be involved with the team in some capacity. Kershaw, who retired after the 2025 season, was included on the Team USA roster for the World Baseball Classic this spring but did not participate in any games. He was removed from the roster before the semifinals, making his inclusion largely symbolic. Kershaw is currently in Los Angeles for the season-opening series against the Arizona Diamondbacks. He was part of the NBC broadcast team for the opener and will attend the World Series ring ceremony at Dodger Stadium later this week. While the specifics of his role remain unclear, special assistant positions in Major League Baseball vary in scope. Some are ceremonial or public relations-focused, while others involve working with players and prospects during Spring Training and the regular season. Kershaw’s decision to remain with the Dodgers aligns with his long-standing connection to the franchise. He spent his entire 13-season career with the team, posting a 2.53 ERA over nearly 3,000 innings. His tenure included three World Series championships, five ERA titles, three Cy Young Awards, and an NL MVP award in 2014. He remains the most recent pitcher to win the NL MVP honor. Despite his retirement, Kershaw’s influence on the Dodgers continues. His presence at the team’s events underscores his enduring relationship with the organization. While his exact responsibilities as a special assistant are not yet detailed, his involvement is seen as a natural extension of his legacy with the club.#world_baseball_classic #nbc #los_angeles_dodgers #clayton_kershaw #dodger_stadium

Athletics Open Season with High Anticipation Against Blue Jays The Oakland Athletics are set to kick off their 2024 season with a highly anticipated matchup against the reigning American League champion Toronto Blue Jays. The game marks the start of what is being described as the most promising season in recent memory for the A’s, despite the team’s Opening Day celebration being delayed until a week later at their home ballpark. The matchup at the Rogers Center in Toronto is expected to generate significant excitement, with fans eager to see how the young and talented Athletics squad performs against a formidable opponent. Luis Severino has been named the starting pitcher for the Athletics in this opening game. The 32-year-old right-handed ace aims to build on a mixed first season with the team, during which he posted an 8-11 record and a 4.45 ERA across 162 innings. However, Severino has shown signs of improvement in recent months, particularly during his strong performance in the World Baseball Classic (WBC) earlier this spring. His return to form is seen as a key factor in the A’s optimistic outlook for the season. Severino will face off against Toronto’s 35-year-old righty Kevin Gausman, a veteran pitcher who finished the 2023 season with a 10-11 record and a 3.99 ERA. Gausman also tallied 189 strikeouts over 32 starts, making him a formidable challenge for the Athletics. The game will serve as a crucial test for both teams, with the A’s looking to build momentum against a team that recently captured the American League title. The matchup is part of a broader weekend series between the two clubs, with the A’s hoping to use the opportunity to showcase their potential and push toward the postseason.#world_baseball_classic #toronto_blue_jays #luis_severino #oakland_athletics #kevin_gausman

Jackson Chourio Injured, Placed on 10-Day Injured List The Milwaukee Brewers announced on Thursday that outfielder Jackson Chourio has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a fractured left hand, effective retroactively from Wednesday. The decision comes just hours before the team’s season opener, and Chourio is expected to miss at least the first 2-4 weeks of the regular season. The injury was discovered after Chourio complained of discomfort, leading to an MRI scan that revealed a small hairline fracture at the base of his middle finger. The injury occurred during an exhibition game for Venezuela on March 4 in West Palm Beach, Florida, as part of the World Baseball Classic. Chourio initially missed the first two games of the tournament but returned to play, including both of the Brewers’ exhibition games against the Cincinnati Reds in Milwaukee on Monday and Tuesday. Manager Pat Murphy expressed disappointment over the injury, stating that Chourio had been eager to participate in the Opening Day festivities. “He was looking forward to this Opening Day. He loved the WBC, obviously, but he had some pain when he would check swing and even throughout his work,” Murphy said on MLB Central. The manager emphasized that the MRI confirmed the fracture and that the injury is already beginning to heal. However, he warned that further damage could occur if Chourio does not take adequate time to recover. To fill the roster spot, the Brewers recalled switch-hitter Blake Perkins from Triple-A Nashville. Perkins, the last outfielder optioned to the minor leagues at the end of Spring Training, will now take Chourio’s place on the Opening Day roster.#world_baseball_classic #milwaukee_brewers #pat_murphy #jackson_chourio #blake_perkins

Brewers place OF Jackson Chourio on IL due to fractured hand - ESPN The Milwaukee Brewers have placed star outfielder Jackson Chourio on the 10-day injured list following a fractured left hand sustained during a game for Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic on March 4. The injury occurred when Chourio was hit by a pitch from Clayton Beeter. Although he continued to play after the incident, he reported discomfort in his hand, and an MRI confirmed a small hairline fracture of the third metacarpal. The move was made retroactive to Wednesday, meaning Chourio will miss time before returning to the lineup. The Brewers estimate Chourio will be sidelined for two to four weeks, which could impact the team’s efforts to secure a playoff berth. The Brewers finished last season with the best record in Major League Baseball, and Chourio’s return is seen as crucial for their postseason ambitions. Last year, Chourio posted a .270 batting average with 21 home runs and 78 RBIs, while leading the team with 35 doubles and four triples. He is entering his third season under an eight-year, $82 million contract signed in 2021. To fill the void left by Chourio’s absence, the Brewers have recalled outfielder Blake Perkins from Triple-A Nashville. Perkins, 26, has spent the past two seasons in the minors and has yet to appear in a major league game. His promotion adds depth to the outfield, though the Brewers will need to rely on other players to step up in Chourio’s absence. The injury comes at a critical time for the Brewers, who are looking to build on their strong 2024 season. Chourio’s production has been a key factor in their success, and his absence could test the team’s depth.#world_baseball_classic #jackson_chourio #milkaukee_brewers #clayton_beeter #triple_a_nashville

Cubs Finalize Long-Term Extension with Star Center Fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong The Chicago Cubs and center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong are finalizing a long-term contract extension, securing one of the league’s most promising young talents after his breakout 2024 season. The deal comes as Crow-Armstrong, who turns 24 on Wednesday, emerged as a key contributor for the Cubs, winning a Gold Glove and becoming the first player in three decades to record a 30-30 season. Crow-Armstrong’s rise to prominence was marked by his elite defensive skills and offensive contributions. Last season, he solidified his reputation as the best center fielder in baseball, showcasing both power and speed. His first half of the season was particularly impressive, as he hit .265/.302/.544 with 25 home runs and 27 stolen bases. While his second-half performance dipped slightly—posting six home runs, eight steals, and a .216/.262/.372 slash line—the Cubs viewed his overall production as a sign of his potential. The 2024 season saw Crow-Armstrong earn an All-Star berth and represent the United States in the World Baseball Classic. His standout play included leading the majors in Outs Above Average, a testament to his defensive prowess. Despite his offensive struggles in the second half, the Cubs remained confident, attributing his performance to a temporary dip rather than a lack of ability. Crow-Armstrong’s journey to the majors began with a trade from the New York Mets in 2023. The Mets, seeking to upgrade their roster, sent him to the Cubs in exchange for Javier Baez and Trevor Williams. The move proved beneficial for Chicago, as Crow-Armstrong quickly adapted to the big leagues. After a strong minor league season in 2023, he made his MLB debut as a September call-up in 2024.#world_baseball_classic #chicago_cubs #new_york_mets #pete_crowarmstrong #national_league_central

Oscars Viewership Drops 9% Amid Declining Trends in Award Shows The 2024 Academy Awards attracted 17.9 million viewers on Sunday night, marking a 9 percent decline from the previous year’s broadcast, according to Nielsen. This represents the first drop in viewership for the Oscars since 2021 and follows similar declines for the Grammy Awards and Golden Globe Awards this year. The trend highlights a broader shift in audience engagement with major award shows, as all three events recorded lower ratings compared to previous years. The Oscars’ ratings have been on a four-year upward trajectory until this year, when the decline coincided with the broadcast of the World Baseball Classic. The semifinal game between the United States and the Dominican Republic, which aired on Fox Sports 1 and Fox Deportes, drew 7.4 million viewers—a significant number for cable networks. While the sports event may have diverted some attention, the decline in Oscar viewership is attributed to broader changes in media consumption habits and competition from streaming platforms. The telecast, hosted by Conan O’Brien, received mostly positive reviews, with “One Battle After Another” winning the best picture award and “Sinners” securing four Oscars, including Michael B. Jordan’s first best actor win. Despite the drop in viewership, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences does not face the same pressure as before. The organization’s long-standing partnership with ABC, which spans over half a century, will end after 2028. Beginning in 2029, the Oscars will stream exclusively on YouTube, reflecting a strategic shift toward digital platforms. Nielsen’s ratings data includes both live viewers on ABC and those who streamed the ceremony on Hulu.#world_baseball_classic #conan_obrien #youtube #academy_of_motion_picture_arts_and_sciences #grammys

USA Advances to WBC Championship After Controversial Call, Italy & Venezuela Fight for Finals Bid The United States secured its place in the World Baseball Classic championship game for the third consecutive tournament, thanks to a dramatic 2–1 victory over the Dominican Republic. The decisive moment came in the ninth inning when a controversial strike three call ended the game, sparking debate among players and fans. Despite the Dominican Republic’s high-octane offense, the U.S. team’s dominant pitching, led by Paul Skenes, and a resilient bullpen held them in check throughout the contest. The matchup, hailed as one of the most star-studded games in WBC history, was marked by intense competition. The U.S. lineup, featuring top-tier talent, managed to outlast the DR’s explosive attack, which had been a major threat throughout the tournament. Skenes’ performance was pivotal, as he combined with a strong bullpen to limit the DR’s scoring opportunities. However, the game’s conclusion remains contentious, with Dominican Republic players and fans expressing frustration over the final call. The incident has reignited discussions about the need for improved umpiring protocols, including the potential implementation of automatic ball-strike technology, which could be introduced in future tournaments. As the tournament progresses, the semifinal showdown between Italy and Venezuela will determine the final opponent for the United States in the championship. Both teams have shown resilience, with Venezuela upsetting Japan in the quarterfinals and Italy advancing through a tough path. Analysts note that Venezuela’s victory over Japan was not entirely unexpected, given their strong performance and depth.#united_states #venezuela #dominican_republic #world_baseball_classic #paul_skenes

Orioles react to Gunnar Henderson's home run in 2026 World Baseball Classic semifinal Baltimore Orioles players and coaches have expressed strong support for Gunnar Henderson’s performance in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, with many urging the U.S. team to include the 24-year-old in the championship game against Venezuela. Despite the U.S. roster featuring top-tier talent, teammates emphasized Henderson’s value and the Orioles’ deep understanding of his abilities. Henderson, who has emerged as one of Major League Baseball’s premier players in recent years, showcased his elite skills during the tournament. In pool play, he went 4-for-5 with a double and two RBIs in a 9-1 victory over Great Britain on March 7. He followed with a home run in an 8-6 loss to Italy, then hit a game-tying homer in the fourth inning of the U.S. semifinal win against the Dominican Republic. His 400-foot solo shot, projected by Statcast, proved pivotal in securing the victory. Team USA manager Mark DeRosa cited Henderson’s past success against Dominican Republic starter Luis Severino as a key factor in his lineup placement. Henderson, 7-for-9 with a double, a home run, and four RBIs against Severino in MLB games, was slotted at No. 5 in the order. His performance in the semifinal reinforced his readiness for the championship. Orioles players like second baseman Jackson Holliday and infielder Coby Mayo praised Henderson’s adaptability to the tournament’s demanding role. Holliday noted Henderson’s ability to thrive despite limited playing time, while Mayo highlighted his energy and clutch performance. Holliday even shared a lighthearted moment when his mother predicted a home run, only for Henderson to ground out initially before delivering the game-tying shot.#world_baseball_classic #mark_derosa #baltimore_orioles #gunnar_henderson #luis_severino

World Baseball Classic: Why USA Would Still Qualify for Olympics Without Advancing The United States baseball team faces an unexpected dilemma in the 2026 World Baseball Classic after a stunning loss to Italy. Despite the setback, the team remains locked in for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, which will serve as the host city. This automatic qualification means the outcome of the WBC does not directly impact the USA’s Olympic berth, though the team’s performance in the tournament could still influence future opportunities. The WBC is one of three qualifying events for the 2028 Olympic baseball tournament, which will feature six teams. As the host nation, the USA secures an automatic spot, eliminating the need to compete for a berth. However, the tournament’s structure and the potential for MLB players to participate in the Olympics add layers of complexity. The 2028 Games are scheduled for July 15-20 at Dodger Stadium, overlapping with the All-Star break and requiring logistical coordination. The qualification process for the Olympics involves multiple events. The host team (USA) is guaranteed a spot. The 2026 WBC will determine two teams from the Americas, while the 2027 WSBC Premier12 will select one team from Asia and another from Europe/Oceania. The final Olympic berth will be awarded through a qualifier event in March 2028, featuring teams from the 2027 European and Asian championships, the African champion, and the highest-ranked team from the Oceanic championship. The USA’s current situation highlights the unique position of the host nation. Even if the team fails to advance beyond the first round of the WBC, they are already assured a place in the Olympics. This scenario has sparked discussions about the broader implications for MLB players.#united_states #world_baseball_classic #los_angeles #mlb #aaron_judge

Jose Altuve Returns to Support Venezuela in World Baseball Classic Final Jose Altuve, the Houston Astros’ All-Star second baseman, will be back in the stands to cheer on his native Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic championship game against the United States on Tuesday night at loanDepot Park in Miami. The matchup, scheduled for 7 p.m. ET on FOX, marks Venezuela’s first appearance in the final since the tournament’s inception. Altuve, who missed the 2023 WBC due to insurance-related issues, made the 70-mile drive from West Palm Beach to Miami to watch the decisive contest. Altuve was spotted wearing a Venezuela jersey behind home plate during Monday’s thrilling semifinal victory over Italy, which secured the team’s place in the final. “I’ll be there tonight again in the same seats,” Altuve said. “It doesn’t matter how the game goes, I’ll be there supporting my boys.” His presence in the stands underscores his deep connection to the team, which he has followed since his early days as a player. The 34-year-old Altuve, who sustained a fractured right thumb after being hit by a pitch in a 2023 WBC game, recently returned to full training with the Astros. He worked out at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches on Tuesday morning, showered, and then traveled to Miami for the final. Despite his absence from the 2023 tournament, Altuve expressed pride in seeing his countrymen compete at the highest level. “It was fun supporting those guys,” he said. “They’re playing so good and the atmosphere and adrenaline you experience playing those games is crazy.” Venezuela’s manager, Astros bench coach Omar López, holds a special place in Altuve’s career. López, who helped scout and sign Altuve at age 16, was his first professional manager.#venezuela #loandepot_park #world_baseball_classic #omar_lopez #jose_altuve

World Baseball Classic Quarterfinals Set for This Weekend The World Baseball Classic is entering its final stage as the quarterfinals are scheduled for this weekend, with two games planned each day on Friday and Saturday. Friday’s matchups will feature Korea facing the Dominican Republic at 5:30 p.m. CT on FS2, while Team USA takes on Canada at 7 p.m. on Fox. Saturday’s action includes Puerto Rico versus Italy at 2 p.m. on FS1 and Venezuela against Japan at 8 p.m. on Fox. The Milwaukee Brewers have multiple players representing five of the eight remaining teams in the tournament, though only four of those teams include players on the 40-man roster. The matchups this weekend will include: Venezuela: Catcher William Contreras, outfielder Jackson Chourio, and left-handed pitcher Ángel Zerpa Italy: Third baseman Andrew Fischer, a top prospect for MLB Pipeline Canada: Utility player Tyler Black and left-handed pitcher Rob Zastryzny Team USA: Second baseman Brice Turang Dominican Republic: Right-handed pitcher Abner Uribe The Brewers’ involvement in the tournament highlights the global reach of the team’s roster, with players contributing to multiple international competitions. The quarterfinals will determine which four teams advance to the championship round, setting the stage for the final showdown later in the week.#world_baseball_classic #milkwaukee_brewers #william_contreras #jackson_chourio #angel_zerpa

Venezuela upsets Team USA to win first World Baseball Classic title Venezuela claimed its first World Baseball Classic (WBC) championship after a dramatic 3-2 victory over Team USA in the final game of the 2026 tournament. The decisive moment came in the ninth inning when Eugenio Suárez hit a clutch double to put Venezuela ahead, followed by Daniel Palencia’s game-ending save. The win marked the first WBC title in Venezuelan history and extended Team USA’s streak of finishing as runners-up, now in back-to-back years. The title game was a tense affair, with Venezuela leading 2-0 into the eighth inning before Bryce Harper tied the score with a two-run home run. The momentum shifted again in the ninth when Suárez’s double re-established the lead. Palencia then closed the door, securing the victory for Venezuela. The American lineup, which included stars like Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt Jr., and Kyle Schwarber, struggled to generate offense, managing only three hits in the contest. Venezuela’s path to the final was equally dramatic. The team staged a comeback in the semifinals against Italy, a Cinderella story that had advanced to the final four. Italy had defeated the Dominican Republic in a tense 2-1 semifinal, with Gunnar Henderson and Roman Anthony hitting solo home runs to secure the win. Team USA, meanwhile, had overcome a challenging pool play schedule, finishing second in Pool B with a 3-1 record. The U.S. narrowly avoided elimination when Italy’s victory over Mexico secured their spot in the semifinals, bypassing the complicated tiebreaker rules. The 2026 WBC bracket saw several standout performances and upsets. In the group stage, the Dominican Republic dominated with a 10-0 win over Korea, while the United States edged Canada 5-3.#venezuela #world_baseball_classic #team_usa #eugenio_suarez #daniel_palencia

Dodgers World Series Hero 1 Win Away from WBC Title Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith is on the verge of making history with Team USA, as the American squad stands just one victory away from claiming the World Baseball Classic title. The team has not secured a WBC championship since 2017, when they first won the tournament. With two of the three top contenders—Japan and the Dominican Republic—eliminated, Team USA remains the favorite to clinch the title. Smith, the sole representative of the Dodgers in the tournament, is the last remaining player from the team’s roster. Clayton Kershaw, who had initially been part of Team USA, was removed from the squad. Kershaw reflected on his decision to leave the team, stating, “It’s always been a bucket list thing for me to do this and put Team USA across my chest, be able to represent the country.” He emphasized the camaraderie among the players, noting, “You see the group of guys that signed up for it, so I think it’s the same for everybody, just to be able to be in the clubhouse, be able to hang out. Obviously, winning is super important to everybody and the intensity and all that stuff, but for me, just to kind of be a fly on the wall and get to hang out has been, it’s been a blast.” The path to the final has been challenging for Team USA, and they still face significant hurdles to become the second team in WBC history to win multiple titles. The final match is set for Tuesday, but the opponent remains uncertain. Team Italy and Team Venezuela will face off in the semifinals on Monday, with the winner advancing to face the United States. Team USA’s journey has included a loss to Italy in the group stage, and Venezuela, a strong contender, boasts a roster filled with All-Stars and elite talent.#world_baseball_classic #team_usa #los_angeles_dodgers #clayton_kershaw #will_smith

Will Smith vs Cal Raleigh: Who is the Better WBC Catcher? MIAMI, FL — Sunday night, the United States delivered a commanding performance in the World Baseball Classic, overcoming a Dominican Republic team that had dominated the tournament with its offensive firepower. However, the DR’s offensive strength was stifled by the U.S. pitching staff, led by a standout game from Dodgers catcher Will Smith. Despite the DR’s usual offensive prowess, their ability to score was limited to just one run, while the U.S. managed two, showcasing the effectiveness of the pitching rotation and Smith’s leadership behind the plate. Smith’s preparation for the Dominican Republic was evident in his approach to the game. Recognizing the threat posed by sluggers like Juan Soto, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Manny Machado, Smith devised a defensive strategy focused on inducing swings and misses. Over half of the pitches thrown in the game were outside the strike zone, with a significant number coming up and in at the hands of batters. This tactic forced the aggressive DR hitters to chase pitches, resulting in nearly 63% of their strikeouts occurring low and outside against right-handed batters. The strategy proved successful, as the DR’s offensive output was severely curtailed, highlighting Smith’s ability to control the game through his catching decisions. Comparing Smith’s performance to his teammate Cal Raleigh reveals a clear advantage for the veteran catcher. While Smith has only played in three of Team USA’s six games, he has posted a .300 batting average and a .785 OPS. His offensive contributions would have been even more impressive if not for a controversial play in the game against Great Britain, where a spectacular catch by Trayce Thompson robbed him of a potential home run.#dominican_republic #world_baseball_classic #mark_derosa #cal_raleigh #will_smith

Louisville’s Will Smith to Start as Catcher for Team USA in WBC Final Will Smith, a native of Louisville, will take center stage in the World Baseball Classic championship game as the starting catcher for Team USA. The 2024 WBC final will see the United States face Venezuela, marking the first time Venezuela has reached the final since the tournament’s inception. The matchup will take place at loanDepot Park in Miami on March 17, with the first pitch scheduled for 8 p.m. Eastern time. Smith, who plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has established himself as one of the premier catchers in Major League Baseball. His role with the Dodgers includes both defensive leadership and offensive contributions, as evidenced by his performance in the 2024 season. The 28-year-old has also been a key player in the Dodgers’ recent World Series victory, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stages. For Louisville fans, Smith’s participation in the WBC final adds a hometown connection to the international competition. Before his professional career, Smith attended Kentucky Country Day School and later played college baseball at the University of Louisville, where he refined his skills and emerged as a top prospect. His journey from local high school to the MLB and now the global baseball stage highlights his dedication and talent. Team USA’s path to the final included a 4-2 victory over Italy in the semifinals, securing their place in the championship. Venezuela, meanwhile, made history by advancing to the final for the first time, overcoming challenges to reach the final. The game promises to be a high-stakes showdown, with both teams aiming to claim the title. Smith’s presence in the final underscores the significance of the WBC as a platform for international competition.#world_baseball_classic #team_usa #los_angeles_dodgers #university_of_louisville #will_smith

Venezuela's dugout dance at the World Baseball Classic (WBC) has become a symbol of the team's cultural pride and unity as they advance to their first-ever final in the tournament's history. The unique tradition, known as tambores, blends music and movement to reflect the nation's vibrant heritage. This practice, rooted in the traditional drumming of el tambor, has been a defining feature of Venezuela's journey through the competition. The dance, which involves players and coaches forming a circle around a drum, is more than just a celebration—it's a way for the team to connect with their roots and express their identity. Venezuela manager Omar López described the ritual as an embodiment of the country itself, saying, “That's our country. That's us. That's winter ball. That's how we enjoy our baseball.” The tradition highlights the deep cultural ties Venezuelans have to baseball, which is often referred to as “winter ball” due to its seasonal nature in the country. This cultural expression is part of a broader trend in the WBC, where teams incorporate elements of their national identity into the tournament. While other nations have showcased home run celebrations or pre-game rituals, Venezuela's tambores dance stands out for its rhythmic coordination and communal spirit. López emphasized that such traditions vary across Latin American baseball cultures, noting that Puerto Rico’s La Plena, the Dominican Republic’s Merengue and Bachata, and other regional styles all contribute to the tournament’s diversity. “It’s kind of the same, but it’s a different type of music,” he said, underscoring the shared yet distinct ways teams celebrate their heritage. The WBC’s appeal lies in its ability to showcase these cultural narratives, turning the competition into a global celebration of baseball’s unifying power.#venezuela #miami #world_baseball_classic #omar_lopez #tambores

Venezuela’s pre-game ritual at the World Baseball Classic is a vibrant celebration of its Afro-Venezuelan heritage, blending music, dance, and cultural pride. Before each match, Team Venezuela gathers in a circle in its dugout, where pitcher Eduard Bazardo drums on a traditional instrument called el tambor. The players then take turns jumping in and out of the circle, showcasing their rhythmic moves as part of the tambores tradition. This practice, rooted in Venezuela’s cultural identity, has become a defining feature of the team’s pre-game preparation. Tambores, a form of music and dance, is central to the ritual. The drum serves as the heartbeat of the performance, often accompanied by a single drummer or an entire ensemble. Alvarez, a writer and co-founder of El Extrabase, describes tambores as deeply Caribbean, with variations in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. However, he emphasizes its traditional roots in Venezuela, where it is a symbol of national pride. “That’s our country,” said Venezuela manager Omar López, who noted that the dance reflects the team’s identity and how Venezuelans enjoy baseball. The tradition extends beyond the baseball field, permeating everyday life in Venezuela. Alvarez explained that tambores is a staple at parties, especially in coastal towns like Ocumare de la Cosa, where pitcher Bazardo grew up, and La Sabana or La Guaira, home to players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Maikel Garcia. At these gatherings, the music transitions from salsa, merengue, and reggaeton to the energetic rhythm of tambores, often reaching its peak during “hora loca,” or “crazy hour,” around midnight.#venezuela #world_baseball_classic #eduard_bazardo #omar_lopez #alvarez

World Baseball Classic Final Features Mariners Players on Both Teams The World Baseball Classic final has a unique Seattle connection, with Cal Raleigh and Gabe Speier representing Team USA and Eduardo Bazardo, Jhonathan Díaz, and Eugenio Suárez playing for Venezuela. This split gives Mariners fans a stake in either outcome and adds intrigue to the high-stakes international title game. Team USA secured its spot with a 2-1 semifinal victory over the Dominican Republic, overcoming a tough lineup and challenging conditions. Venezuela reached the final after a 4-2 comeback win against Italy, marking the country’s first appearance in a WBC final. The matchup balances Venezuela’s underdog momentum against Team USA’s roster depth and star power. Venezuela’s run has been fueled by a strong underdog narrative, while Team USA relies on veteran experience and elite talent. The game’s outcome could hinge on which team’s story—reliability or late-game surges—proves more decisive. Key Mariners players to watch include Cal Raleigh, who enters the final with a 0-for-9 record but has a history of performing in critical moments. Gabe Speier, despite a mixed stat line, is trusted on a championship roster, with his impact likely shaped by matchup decisions. Eduardo Bazardo’s scoreless inning in the semifinal highlights his value in late-game situations. Jhonathan Díaz adds bullpen depth for Venezuela, while Eugenio Suárez brings a veteran bat capable of shifting momentum with a single swing. The presence of multiple Mariners players on both teams influences how managers approach matchups. Decisions on reliever usage and hitter strategies may prioritize familiarity with tendencies and recent form over traditional reputations. For bettors, the final favors player props and situational bets over a straightforward moneyline.#venezuela #world_baseball_classic #team_usa #cal_raleigh #gabe_speier