TEMPE — Nolan Arenado, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ third baseman, has officially committed to representing Puerto Rico in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC), marking his third tournament appearance. Initially hesitant about the switch from Team USA, Arenado was ultimately persuaded by Team Puerto Rico’s manager, Yadier Molina, his former teammate on the St. Louis Cardinals.
At 34 years old, Arenado has a rich history in the WBC, having previously played for Team USA, where he celebrated a championship victory in 2017 and narrowly missed another in 2023 by just one run. This time, however, he will embrace his Puerto Rican heritage, which he sees as a fitting way to commemorate what he anticipates may be his final WBC.
“It’s a little weird, for sure,” he admitted about the team switch. “But Yadi called me, and he made me really comfortable about it. I didn’t get asked by USA, so I don’t feel guilty there because I never was asked. But this is going to be the last time I ever get to do it.”
Arenado’s participation is particularly significant as the Puerto Rican team faces considerable challenges with injuries impacting its roster, including the absence of stars like Francisco Lindor, Carlos Correa, and Javier Baez. Acknowledging the pressure, Arenado expressed determination to step up and lead the team: “Nobody feels bad for us, so we got to find a way. We still got some good arms, and we’re playing in Puerto Rico, so hopefully the fans can give us a little extra boost.”
Puerto Rico is indeed set to host its pool play, allowing Arenado to immerse himself in the island’s rich baseball culture, which boasts a legacy dating back to the late 1800s and being the home of legendary player Roberto Clemente.
Meanwhile, in another standout storyline, Diamondbacks prospect Druw Jones is making his international debut for the Netherlands, managed by his father, Andruw Jones. This makes them the first father-son duo in WBC history. At just 22, Druw is looking forward to learning from a roster filled with MLB talent, including All-Stars like Xander Bogaerts and Didi Gregorius.
Additionally, D-backs pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez is gearing up for what might be his last WBC with Venezuela. Excited to reunite with former teammate Eugenio Suarez, Rodriguez noted the high caliber of their roster, which hopes to advance beyond the quarterfinals this time after a strong performance in 2023.
With both veterans and fresh talent coming together, this year’s WBC promises to be an exciting showcase of international baseball and heritage for players and fans alike.