The World Baseball Classic is set to ignite the baseball world on March 4, and for Chicago Cubs fans, there's plenty to cheer about. With 13 Cubs players representing various countries, the global stage is packed with Wrigleyville talent.
Cubs players will don jerseys for Team USA, Team Canada, Team Japan-the reigning champs-along with Team Puerto Rico, Team Panama, Team Chinese Taipei, Team Great Britain, Team Venezuela, and Team Mexico. No matter where your loyalties lie, here are two compelling reasons for Cubs fans to tune in.
Pete Crow-Armstrong: A Star for Team USA
Pete Crow-Armstrong, fresh off an MVP-caliber season, is set to patrol center field for Team USA. After becoming just the second player in Cubs history to achieve a 30/30 season, his dynamic play is ready for the world stage.
Last season, Crow-Armstrong earned his first All-Star nod and a Gold Glove for his stellar defense. With 37 doubles, 31 home runs, 95 RBIs, and 35 stolen bases, his ability to impact a game is well-known among Cubs fans.
For Team USA to dethrone Japan, a standout performance from Crow-Armstrong could be pivotal. Manager Mark DeRosa surely wouldn't mind seeing some highlight-reel moments from PCA next month.
Seiya Suzuki: A Surprise in Center Field
In a move that might surprise some Cubs fans, Seiya Suzuki is slated to take on center field duties. Concerns have lingered about his full-time return to right field, making this shift intriguing.
Suzuki started in center during the Cubs' Cactus League opener, and Team Japan seems focused on an offensive barrage in the WBC, pushing Suzuki into this new role. The 31-year-old played his first MLB game in center last season, a position he hadn't filled since the 2017 WBC.
Coming off a career year with over 30 homers and 100 RBIs, Suzuki is entering the final year of his contract, aiming to be a key run producer for the Cubs in 2026.
With these storylines unfolding, Cubs fans have every reason to be glued to the World Baseball Classic action.