Despite the tough loss, Pete Crow-Armstrong delivered a standout performance against Italy, smashing two home runs in a spirited comeback that ultimately fell short.
Amidst the media frenzy surrounding former Cubs infielder and current Team USA manager Mark DeRosa, it's clear no one was more relieved than DeRosa himself when Italy's victory over Mexico secured the US a spot in the WBC quarterfinals.
As Team USA gears up for a crucial win-or-go-home matchup against Canada on Friday night, fans are buzzing with anticipation. Can Team USA shake off their recent loss to Italy and refocus as they pursue a championship?
For DeRosa and his squad, there’s no room for error. Cubs fans are well-acquainted with Pete Crow-Armstrong, a key player in the lineup so far.
Crow-Armstrong's potential impact against Canada
Heading into Friday, Crow-Armstrong boasts an impressive 1.427 OPS, leading all USA players and tying with Aaron Judge for the team lead in home runs. The big question is whether he'll start, as DeRosa has alternated between Crow-Armstrong and Byron Buxton.
Facing Canada will be Michael Soroka, a familiar face for Crow-Armstrong from last summer’s trade deadline. Last season, Crow-Armstrong posted a solid .271/.315/.523 slash line against righties, which, combined with his top-tier center field defense, could earn him the nod over Buxton, who had a similar .253/.313/.516 line against right-handers in 2025.
In this high-stakes scenario, there's no room for mistakes or missed chances. Few players can influence a game like Pete Crow-Armstrong. If DeRosa wants to steer the team past recent turmoil, letting PCA shine could be the perfect strategy.