As Team USA advances to the World Baseball Classic championship game, their characteristically reserved demeanor stands in stark contrast to the theatrical displays of their Latin American counterparts. Under the leadership of captain Aaron Judge, the American squad has cultivated a clubhouse culture defined by measured composure rather than flamboyant expression.
Following their narrow 2-1 victory against the Dominican Republic, outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong acknowledged the cultural differences in baseball expression: “You guys would all think it’s silly if we shuffled like Soto or did Vladdy’s little wiggle. That’s them and if I had enough swag to do that I would probably do that, too. We have fun in our own way, but we definitely have fun out there.”
The towering 6-foot-7 Judge has established the team’s philosophical foundation through his authentic leadership approach. “It’s been cool to see how he goes about his business,” remarked pitcher Paul Skenes, himself standing at 6-foot-6. “He’s not faking anything. He’s playing as Aaron Judge, so that’s just his personality in the clubhouse and off the field.”
Manager Mark DeRosa revealed that Judge declined the traditional captain’s “C” on his uniform, demonstrating his humble leadership style. “Leader of men. Classy in every decision he makes,” DeRosa stated. “A lot of decisions that I’ve made throughout the course of the WBC I have made with his recommendations.”
The team has drawn criticism for occasionally stoic behavior, including catcher Cal Raleigh’s refusal to shake hands with Seattle teammate Randy Arozarena during pool play. Simultaneously, they’ve embraced military connections, with players saluting after victories and hosting former Navy SEAL Robert J. O’Neill, who claimed involvement in the Osama bin Laden operation.
DeRosa addressed his earlier miscalculation regarding tournament advancement, admitting his premature declaration of quarterfinal qualification was an “overly confident statement” that required correction after Italy’s crucial victory over Mexico secured their progression.
Seeking their second title after the 2017 championship, Team USA faces either Venezuela or Italy in the final, having reached their third consecutive WBC championship game after falling 3-2 to Japan in the 2023 final.
Veteran Bryce Harper reflected on cultural differences in baseball expression, recalling early career criticism for his distinctive equipment choices: “I kind of got pounded for it. So there’s an American way of baseball everybody talks about, right? But I think that’s so far from the truth. Obviously, when we grow up, we play a different style. But we learn from other people’s styles, as well.”
The team will start rookie right-hander Nolan McLean, who previously struggled in the group stage loss to Italy, allowing multiple home runs. Despite this challenge, McLean expressed readiness: “It’s just kind of a dream come true to be able to get the ball in such a big moment, and it’s something I want to do.”