Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star Mookie Betts was added to the Team USA roster for the 2023 World Baseball Classic, joining the likes of Pete Alonso, Nolan Arenado, Paul Goldschmidt, Bryce Harper, Cedric Mullins, J.T. Realmuto, Trevor Story and Mike Trout.
Cody Bellinger and Walker Buehler previously committed to playing for Team USA in the 2021 World Baseball Classic before the tournament was postponed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Betts boasts an impressive résumé that includes six All-Star Game appearances, two World Series championships and the 2018 American League MVP Award, but he has never played in the World Baseball Classic before.
Team USA’s roster is shaping up to be one of the deepest in the history of the tournament, but it won’t be officially set until the offseason.
Team USA is looking to win its second World Baseball Classic title after capturing the 2017 event with a dominant 8-0 victory over Puerto Rico in the championship game at Dodger Stadium.
Team USA begins its title defense as part of Pool C at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona, from March 11-15, facing Canada, Colombia, Mexico and a to-be-determined qualifying team.
The Pool C winner and runner-up will advance to the quarterfinals in Miami, Florida, from March 17-18, and match-up against the winner and runner-up of Pool D.
The fifth installment of the Classic will take place from March 8-21, 2023. loanDepot park in Miami will also host the semifinals and finals of the tournament from March 19-21.
Ebel joining Betts on Team USA in 2023 WBC
Team USA recently finalized its coaching staff for the 2023 World Baseball Classic and will be led by first-year manager Mark DeRosa.
Joining him are bench coach Jerry Manuel, pitching coach Andy Pettitte, hitting coach Ken Griffey Jr., first base coach Lou Collier, third base coach Dino Ebel and bullpen coach Dave Righetti.
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