Diamondbacks’ Nolan Arenado shrugs off criticism after choosing Puerto Rico for WBC

Arenado, one of the game’s most prominent American-born players with Puerto Rican heritage, acknowledged the backlash he’s faced in recent days as his commitment rolled out online. While support from Puerto Rican fans has been strong, much of the reaction online has been hostile.

“Obviously, playing for the USA was great,” Arenado said on the Foul Territory Podcast. “I’ve already had some pretty harsh DMs coming at me by some people.”

The Diamondbacks third baseman revealed that Yadier Molina recruited him to Team Puerto Rico, something Arenado has been preparing for throughout the offseason.

“I’m not too concerned about everyone’s feelings,” he said. “I’m excited to open up in Puerto Rico and help this team win and play with some great players.”

Arenado also revealed some of the messages he received from fans after his commitment was made public. One fan sent the Diamondbacks star a video of himself throwing Arenado’s USA jersey in the trash, while another called him a “traitor.”

The emotional stakes surrounding the WBC are nothing new, as national pride often blurs with history. While some players, like Arenado, weren’t born in the countries they represent in the tournament, roots and heritage also take precedence.

The situation highlights the unique situation for athletes who hold multiple identities and want to compete at the international level. For example, fellow Diamondbacks outfielder Alek Thomas was born and raised in Chicago but will don a Team Mexico jersey to represent his heritage.

Those who identify with only one country or community may not fully understand the unique opportunities these players have — the ability to represent the cultures they identify with rather than only their birth country.

For Arenado, his decision to choose Team Puerto Rico over Team USA came down to circumstances beyond emotion.

“I didn’t get asked to play for [the] USA,” Arenado said. “Listen, it’s baseball. It’s not a big deal. I’m excited to play for Puerto Rico, and if we end up playing [the] USA, I think that’d be pretty cool.”

The World Baseball Classic is set to begin Thursday, March 5, with the finals scheduled for Tuesday, March 17.