D-Backs’ Alek Thomas carries family pride into World Baseball Classic

This year’s World Baseball Classic will mark the second time the Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder suits up for Team Mexico. He recently revealed that both opportunities carry deep personal meaning.

“It means a lot,” Thomas said Tuesday, according to PHNX Diamondbacks. “Not many people knew that I was Mexican, so just for me to be able to represent my family and wear the colors is really special to me and special to my family.”

Thomas added that this year’s edition of the Classic will be even more meaningful as he plays in honor of his great-grandmother, who he said is proud of him.

“Really, I’m doing it for her,” he said. “It means the world to do this and to do this for her… I think she’s aware of what’s going on — I don’t know if she’s fully aware — but definitely the whole Mexican side of my family is watching.”

One of Arizona’s speedy outfielders, Thomas has built his reputation as an elite defender in the Valley. His participation in the WBC gives Mexico an experienced outfielder with pop, speed and the ability to be a difference-maker on defense.

His involvement also resonates within the Valley community. Bordering Mexico, Arizona is home to many Mexican and Mexican American residents. Many fans of Mexican descent are excited to see one of their favorite Diamondbacks players represent their heritage on an international stage.

“I think it’s good,” one fan told Burn City Sports. “I have children who were born here, so having someone from their favorite team play for the country their parents are from is exciting. I loved seeing [Thomas] at Chase Field three years ago.” (Translated from Spanish to English)

As the World Baseball Classic draws nearer, it is evident that this year’s tournament holds even more weight for many players — especially for Thomas, who now has even more to play for.

The WBC begins March 5 and runs through March 17.