U.S. Players Embrace Unique Styles Ahead of World Baseball Classic Championship
MIAMI - As the U.S. team gears up for the World Baseball Classic championship against Venezuela, there's been some chatter about their composed demeanor. Yet, they hold a deep appreciation for the vibrant flair displayed by their Latin counterparts, such as Juan Soto and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
U.S. captain Aaron Judge, known for his calm and collected presence, has set the tone for the team. His influence is palpable as they prepare for the big game, but that doesn't mean they don't enjoy the theatrics of their opponents.
American outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong shared his thoughts after the U.S. clinched a 2-1 victory over the Dominican Republic. “You’d think it’s silly if we did the Soto shuffle or Vladdy’s wiggle,” he said.
“But if I had the swag, I’d probably do it too. We have our own fun out there.”
Judge’s leadership extends beyond his towering 6-foot-7 frame. His genuine approach both on and off the field resonates with his teammates.
Star pitcher Paul Skenes, standing at 6-foot-6, admires Judge’s authenticity. “He’s true to himself, and it shows in everything he does,” Skenes noted.
U.S. manager Mark DeRosa highlighted Judge’s influence, revealing that Judge declined the captain’s “C” on his uniform. “He’s a leader in every sense,” DeRosa said. “I’ve leaned on his insights throughout the WBC.”
Veteran player Bryce Harper, who once tried to emulate the Latin style with his own flair, reflected on his early days in the majors. “I got some flak for my style back then,” Harper admitted. “There’s talk of an ‘American way’ of playing, but we learn from each other’s styles.”
The Dominican team’s energy was infectious, with fans reacting to every play. Crow-Armstrong noticed the difference in fan engagement, saying, “Their crowd was electric. You don’t always see that with U.S. fans.”
Nolan McLean, a rookie right-hander with eight major league games under his belt, is set to start for the U.S. after a challenging outing against Italy. “I got hit a couple of times, but I felt good overall,” McLean said. “Starting in such a big moment is a dream come true.”
As the U.S. team steps onto the field, they carry not only their own unique style but also a respect for the diverse approaches that make baseball a truly global game.