CARY, N.C. – USA Baseball today revealed its annual organizational award winners, recognizing the top athletes, coaches, performances, and staff from its 2023 national teams and development programs. For the first time in the organization’s history, two athletes–Trea Turner (WBC) and Tyler Early (12U)–were honored with the Richard W. “Dick” Case Award, recognizing the athlete of the year.

Additionally, after leading Team USA to a silver medal at the 2023 World Baseball Classic, Mark DeRosa earned Rod Dedeaux Coach of the Year honors. Charlie Condon’s walk-off single for the Collegiate National Team secured the International Performance of the Year, while Alex Hugo was named the Sportswoman of the Year for the second time in her career.

Thanks to a gold-medal run at the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) U-12 Baseball World Cup, the 12U National Team was awarded Team of the Year honors for the second consecutive season. Veronica Alvarez received the “Doc” Counsilman Science Award, while Rick Eckstein earned Coach Educator of the Year honors.

Dylan Crews (Golden Spikes Award), Josie Harding (Service Provider of the Year), Mike Kinkade (Volunteer Coach of the Year), and Rob Shabansky (Developmental Coach of the Year) round out the 2023 award winners.

“It is a great privilege to reward our stellar athletes, coaches, and staff for their incredible achievements in 2023,” said Paul Seiler, USA Baseball’s Executive Director and CEO. “We had another strong year in 2023, adding two more gold medals and a World Baseball Classic medal to our ledger. Before we turn our focus to continuing our international success in 2024, it is important for us to look back and recognize all of the individuals who contributed to another great year for USA Baseball.”

The complete list of the 2023 USA Baseball organizational award winners is as follows:

• Richard W. “Dick” Case Award: Trea Turner (World Baseball Classic Team) & Tyler Early (12U National Team)
• Rod Dedeaux Coach of the Year: Mark DeRosa (World Baseball Classic Team)
• Sportswoman of the Year: Alex Hugo (Women’s National Team)
• International Performance of the Year: Charlie Condon (Collegiate National Team)
• Team of the Year: 12U National Team (World Cup)
• Developmental Coach of the Year: Rob Shabansky (15U National Team)
• Volunteer Coach of the Year: Mike Kinkade
• Coach Educator of the Year: Rick Eckstein
• “Doc” Councilman Science Award: Veronica Alvarez (Women’s National Team)
• Service Provider of the Year: Josie Harding
• Golden Spikes Award: Dylan Crews (Louisiana State University)

For the first time in the organization’s history, two players earned the Richard W. “Dick” Case Player of the Year Award in 2023. Trea Turner led the U.S. offense at the World Baseball Classic all tournament long in March, batting .391 with a tournament-most five home runs to go along with 11 RBIs. Turner, who was named to the WBC All-Tournament Team, hit four home runs over the tournament’s final three games to help Team USA secure a silver medal. The first of Turner’s crucial blasts came in the quarterfinal round against Venezuela, when the U.S. shortstop crushed a go-ahead grand slam in the top of the eighth to lift the stars and stripes to the semifinals. Turner then hit two more home runs against Cuba to clinch the United States’ spot in the WBC Championship, becoming the first player in the tournament’s history to drive in four or more runs in consecutive games. He continued his tear in the title game, socking his fifth homer­ to tie for the most all-time in a single WBC. Overall, Turner’s five homers and 11 RBIs put him at the top of the Team USA World Baseball Classic record book in both categories.

Tyler Early played a key role in helping the 12U National Team win two gold medals in 2023 to earn Richard W. “Dick” Case Player of the Year Award honors. Playing in all 18 games for Team USA at the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup and World Cup Qualifier, the two-way star batted .442 with 10 home runs and 25 RBIs while going 4-0 and posting a 2.68 ERA with 26 strikeouts on the mound. Early etched his name in the record books on three separate occasions in 2023, setting the program record for walks in a game (4), walks in a tournament (17), and strikeouts in a game (9). The Louisiana native cranked six homers in a five-game span in the Qualifier, also earning wins in a 25-24 thriller against Venezuela and a 10-0 shutout over Mexico to be named to the All-Tournament Team. At the World Cup, Early blasted four home runs, pitched five strong innings against Korea in a key Opening Round matchup, and earned the win in the gold medal game victory over Chinese Taipei. He captured the World Cup’s Most Valuable Player Award and secured a spot on the All-World Team.

Mark DeRosa was named 2023 USA Baseball Rod Dedeaux Coach of the Year after he led Team USA to a silver medal at the World Baseball Classic in March. DeRosa’s team went 5-2 in the WBC, reaching the title game for the second consecutive tournament and securing its first silver medal in tournament history. The U.S. led all 20 competing nations in home runs (12), hits (72), and slugging percentage (.553) under DeRosa’s guidance, also ranking in the top three in doubles (13), runs (51), and walks (32). Following a tournament-opening win, the stars and stripes dropped their second contest before rattling off four straight victories to reach the title game against Japan. The U.S. outscored opponents 38-12 during its four-game winning streak, including outputs of 12 runs (vs. Canada) and 14 runs (vs. Cuba). With DeRosa at the helm, Mike Trout and Turner–the Richard W. “Dick” Case Player of the Year–earned spots on the WBC All-Tournament Team.

Appearing on the Women’s National Team for the fourth time in 2023, Alex Hugo had her best performance yet en route to being named the USA Baseball Sportswoman of the Year. Hugo compiled a .714 batting average (10-for-14) with a homer and nine RBIs in five games, reaching base at a .773 clip as Team USA went unbeaten in the WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup Group Stage. The Olathe, Kansas, native was named the Most Outstanding Player of Group A after leading the tournament in numerous statistical categories, including hits (10), doubles (4), on-base percentage (.773), on-base plus slugging percentage (1.987), and runs (13). After opening the tournament with a hit and a run scored against Australia to help pick up a win, Hugo doubled twice in Team USA’s win over Korea, scored four runs in a victory against Canada, crushed a home run to help the U.S. defeat Hong Kong, and went 2-for-2 with two runs scored in a tournament finale win over Mexico. The four-time Team USA alum scored at least once in all five games, including two contests where she crossed home plate four times. This marks the second time Hugo has been named the USA Baseball Sportswoman of the Year after she previously earned the award in 2019.

With the U.S. trailing by a run and down to its final two outs against Chinese Taipei on the Fourth of July, Charlie Condon delivered to earn the International Performance of the Year. After a rain delay forced the final game of the series to be a seven-inning contest, Chinese Taipei rallied for three runs in the top of the sixth and took a one-run lead into the bottom of the seventh. Two straight singles and a passed ball put the tying and winning runs on base for Condon, who came to the plate and snuck a 2-2 pitch through the left side to bring home Seaver King with the winning run as Team USA secured a five-game sweep in the 20th USA vs. Chinese Taipei International Friendship Series.

After winning its second consecutive WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup gold medal, the 12U National Team was named the USA Baseball Team of the Year. The club went to Taiwan in July and posted a 7-2 record en route to securing its fifth world title, the most of any nation in the world at the U-12 level. Needing a win in their Super Round finale to secure a spot in the gold medal game, the stars and stripes stormed past Chinese Taipei to force another meeting with the host nation in the title game, where the U.S. notched a 10-4 victory to win gold. Team USA outscored opponents 120-37 in nine games, leading the tournament in runs, home runs (18), and hits (99). On the mound, the U.S. pitching staff struck out a tournament-most 60 batters in 49 innings pitched. The 12U National Team became the first program to win USA Baseball Team of the Year in consecutive seasons since the 18U National Team won it three times from 2012-2014.

Rob Shabansky managed the 15U National Team and spearheaded its run of dominance at the 2023 International Friendly Series in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, to be named Developmental Coach of the Year. Shabansky began the effort in June, scouting players at the National Team Championships in both Arizona and North Carolina. Come September, the seasoned veteran and second-time U.S. manager held his team to a gold standard in its unbeaten run, as the stars and stripes scored 47 runs, maintained a .374 batting average, and posted a 1.16 team ERA over a span of five games. Shabansky brought an abundance of professional playing experience and prior USA Baseball coaching involvement to the table as the former University of Arizona standout and four-year pro ball veteran made his eighth appearance on a Team USA coaching staff in 2023.

Mike Kinkade served as hitting coordinator for the 13U/14U Athlete Development Program (ADP), was on staff at the 2023 MLB Draft Combine, and assisted at the Prospect Development Pipeline (PDP) Premier Women’s Winter Camp to earn Volunteer Coach of the Year. The 2000 Olympic gold medalist brought his plethora of baseball experience to the ADP, which prepares young players for future success and exposes them to high-level coaching. Bridging the gap between national teams, the ADP prepares athletes for the next steps of their career. Prior to his involvement with the ADP, Kinkade played an instrumental role at the 2023 MLB Draft Combine, as he worked with the nation’s top prospects to showcase their talent and prepare for the MLB Draft. Over the winter, Kinkade served as a coach at the PDP Premier Women’s Winter Camp, an offseason initiative designed to build connections and develop the skills of players across the country.

Coach Educator of the Year Rick Eckstein spent time coaching at the PDP League, the 16U/17U National Team Development Program (NTDP), and the 18U National Team Training Camp in 2023. Eckstein brought professional experience to serve as Team Navy’s manager in the PDP League, a joint program assembled between MLB and USA Baseball to provide high school players eligible for the next year’s draft with a robust amateur experience. Later in the summer at the NTDP, Eckstein managed Team White at the National Training Complex in Cary, North Carolina. The veteran major-league hitting coach provided his expertise in what serves as an identification event for the 18U National Team and prepares players by giving them unique on- and off-field experiences, including educational seminars to help prepare for a career in baseball. Eckstein continued to play an integral role with USA Baseball in August, joining the USA Baseball Task Force to scout and assist with the selection of the final 20-man 18U National Team roster. The award marks Eckstein’s second USA Baseball honor; he also earned the “Doc” Counsilman Science Award for his work with the Olympic Team in 2008.

Five-time Team USA alum and three-time Women’s National Team Manager Veronica Alvarez is the 2023 “Doc” Counsilman Science Award recipient. Alvarez’s commitment to the use of scientific data and state-of-the-art technology paid great dividends for Team USA this past summer, as the U.S. went unbeaten over five games at the WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup Group Stage while outscoring opponents 71-2.  Alvarez utilized data provided by PDP Performance Assessments and Rapsodo to assist in selecting the 20-woman Team USA roster, which batted .383 and owned a 0.62 ERA en route to clinching a spot in the World Cup Finals. Additionally, Alvarez helped organize and supported a pitching data seminar with players who attended the PDP Premier Women’s Winter Camp this past January. Alvarez now owns two awards from USA Baseball after she was named the 2019 Rod Dedeaux Coach of the Year following a dominant gold-medal run with the Women’s National Team.

Josie Harding, who was named the 2023 Service Provider of the Year, traveled with three national teams this past season, worked multiple USA Baseball events, and exemplified what it means to be a service provider and represent Team USA. In addition to continuing her work as a certified athletic trainer at the National Team Championships in Arizona, Harding worked in the same role at the PDP Premier Women’s Winter Camp in January. Harding then served as the certified athletic trainer at three different national team events, first playing a key role at the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier in Aguascalientes, Mexico, where she helped Team USA win gold and qualify for the 2023 WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup. The accomplished athletic trainer then contributed to the Women’s National Team’s unbeaten run at the WBSC Women’s World Cup Group Stage in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Harding wrapped up her Team USA summer by traveling with the 18U National Team to Taipei, Taiwan, as the U.S. competed in the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup.

Golden Spikes Award winner Dylan Crews was college baseball’s biggest star in 2023, leading LSU to a College World Series title while sitting near the top of the national leaderboard in most offensive categories. The outfielder reached base in all 71 games this past season and led the country in runs scored with 100. Crews owned a .567 on-base percentage, good for second in the nation, while his 110 hits also ranked second and his .426 batting average was third-best in the country. Crews­–who drew a nation-most 71 walks–also had a 26-game hitting streak spanning from February 19 to April 25. Additionally, the junior led many offensive statistical categories in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) en route to earning the conference’s Player of the Year Award for the second consecutive season. He batted .405 with a .545 on-base percentage to rank first in the conference in both categories, also drawing a conference-leading 27 walks in SEC games and tying for the league lead in hits with 45. Crews, who was drafted second overall by the Washington Nationals in the 2023 MLB Draft, was also a finalist for the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) James E. Sullivan Award.

It's award season! With the 2023 Major League Baseball season in the books, it's time for players to earn recognition for their play throughout the six-month campaign. Follow along here as we recognize all of the USA Baseball alumni who earned MLB awards in 2023.

AMERICAN LEAGUE CY YOUNG

P Gerrit Cole (2009, 2010 Collegiate National Team): Despite finishing runner-up in American League Cy Young voting twice in his career, the Yankees’ ace kept his foot on the gas in 2023 and deservedly earned his first Cy Young award. Cole was unanimously voted as the league’s best pitcher as he led the AL in eight pitching categories, including innings pitched (209), WHIP (0.98) and ERA (2.63). Cole’s eleventh year in the majors was nothing short of first-class, as the right-hander led all pitchers in wins above replacement (WAR) and tossed two shutouts during the season. This run of dominance is not unusual for the USA Baseball alum, as he previously posted a 4-0 record with a 1.06 ERA and 46 strikeouts over six appearances for the gold-winning 2009 Collegiate National Team. The former UCLA standout later led the 2010 CNT in innings pitched (25) while notching a 0.72 ERA and 2-0 record alongside teammate and fellow AL Cy Young finalist, Sonny Gray.

NATIONAL LEAGUE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

OF Corbin Carroll (2018 18U): After leading the Arizona Diamondbacks to their first World Series appearance since 2001, Corbin Carroll has been unanimously-named the 2023 National League Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year. The 16th overall pick in the 2019 Major League Baseball draft made an emphatic entrance into the big leagues in 2023, as Carroll made history in his first-year campaign by recording the first 25 home run, 50 stolen base season by a rookie and was further bolstered by being selected as an MLB All-Star. Throughout the season Carroll continued to prove why he batted leadoff, as he maintained a .285 batting average and a .868 OPS while knocking in 76 runs for Arizona. Not only did Carroll rank fourth in stolen base percentage among NL players, but he consistently made spectacular defensive plays while yielding only one error as he patrolled the outfield. In his time with Team USA, Carroll also showed flashes of being a star, as he impressively hit .500 and led the 2018 18U National Team in stolen bases en route to capturing gold at the U-18 Pan Am Championships.

TREVOR HOFFMAN NATIONAL LEAGUE RELIEVER OF THE YEAR

P Devin Williams (2023 WBC): For the second time in his young career, Devin Williams has been awarded the Trevor Hoffman National League Reliever of the Year. The two-time All Star and former NL Rookie of the year has added another accolade to his resume after anchoring the Milwaukee Brewer bullpen in 2023. Williams held an 8-3 record and posted a 1.53 ERA in 61 appearances. As the Brew Crew’s go-to closer, Williams notched 36 saves, averaged 13.3 strikeouts per nine innings, and held opponents to a .129 batting average. In Williams’ time with Team USA, the right-hander dominated the bump, as he allowed only one hit in 3.1 innings while striking out six.

SILVER SLUGGER

C Adley Rutschman (2018 Collegiate National Team): Rutschman capped off a stellar sophomore season with his first Silver Slugger award after the catcher reached the 20 home run, 80 RBI mark as well as competing in the 2023 Home Run Derby. This is not Rutschman’s first time in the spotlight, as the catcher/designated hitter led the 2018 Collegiate National Team in batting average, slugging percentage, and doubles over a nine-game span.

SS Corey Seager (2010 16U): After earning World Series MVP and leading the Texas Rangers to its first World Series title in franchise history, Seager has now captured his third Silver Slugger award after hitting 33 home runs and maintaining a .327 batting average. He has not only seen success at the major league level, but also went undefeated and won gold with the 2010 16U National Team at the Pan Am Championships where he batted .514.

OF Kyle Tucker (2012 15U, 2023 WBC): Leading the league with 112 RBIs, the Houston Astros outfielder now adds a Silver Slugger to his resume. This marks back-to-back years Tucker has surpassed 100 RBIs and his third season in a row tallying at least 140 hits. Tucker started four games in left field for the 2023 Team USA World Baseball Classic team and also led the 2012 15U National Team in RBIs.

1B Matt Olson (2010 16U): Rounding off a career year at the plate, Olson’s first Silver Slugger award was well deserved. The Georgia native routinely batted cleanup and played a pivotal role in Atlanta’s lethal offense, slugging a career-high and league-leading 54 home runs while hitting the 100 RBI mark for the third time in his career. Paired with U.S. alum Corey Seager in the infield, Olson also led the 2010 16U National Team in home runs and RBIS.

SS Francisco Lindor (2009 16U, 2010 18U): Lindor’s dominance at the plate continued in 2023 and led to his third Silver Slugger accolade, as the Mets’ shortstop notched his fourth career 30+ home run season. On top of that, Lindor joined the 30-30 club after stealing 30 bases as well in addition to hitting 31 home runs. Lindor adds this achievement to the trophy case that also features gold medals won with both the 2009 16U and 2010 18U national teams.

OF Mookie Betts (2023 WBC): Betts executed one of his best season-performances to date, as the 10-year veteran and now six-time Silver Slugger winner slugged a career-best 39 home runs and recorded another 100 RBI season. Betts’ first and only appearance for the stars and stripes was one to be remembered, as he was one of two Team USA players in the 2023 World Baseball Classic to tally double-digits in the hit column with 10.

DH Bryce Harper (2008 16U, 2009 18U): Harper’s star-studded resume now includes three Silver Slugger awards. Although the designated hitter turned first baseman missed the first month of the season, Harper still recorded 21 home runs – marking the ninth time in his career he’s surpassed the 20 home run mark. Harper’s prolific career featured two stints with USA Baseball, as he played on the 18U National Team in 2009 and led the 16U National Team in home runs and RBIs in 2008.

GOLD GLOVE

3B Matt Chapman (2013 Collegiate National Team): Leading all American League third basemen with 12 defensive runs saved in 2023, Chapman took home his fourth career Gold Glove Award. A staple at the hot corner for the Blue Jays since arriving in Toronto before the 2022 season, Chapman leads all MLB third basemen with 92 defensive runs saved since debuting in 2017. Ten years ago, Chapman was the only player on the Collegiate National Team to play in all 23 games as the U.S. posted a 20-3 record that summer.

3B Ke'Bryan Hayes (2014 18U National Team): The first Pirates third baseman to ever win a Gold Glove, Hayes de-throned fellow Team USA alum Nolan Arenado in 2023. Hayes sat atop the leaderboard in nearly every statistical category for NL third basemen, including outs above average (17) and defensive runs saved (21). The success is nothing new for Hayes, who started all eight games of Team USA's undefeated, gold-medal run at the 2014 COPABE U-18 Pan American Championships.

2B Nico Hoerner (2011 14U, 2012 15U National Teams): Playing up the middle with USA Baseball alum Dansby Swanson, Hoerner took home his first career Gold Glove in 2023. The Cubs second baseman ranked 10th in all of baseball with 15 outs above average, also tying for the league lead with 12 defensive runs saved. Hoerner's trophy case now features a Gold Glove and a gold medal, as he led the way for the U.S. at the 2011 COPABE U-14 Pan American Championships before playing for the 15U squad in 2012.

SS Dansby Swanson (2014 Collegiate National Team): Paired with U.S. alum Nico Hoerner up the middle for the Chicago Cubs, Swanson captured his second Gold Glove in as many years. Swanson led all major league players in outs above average with 20, also leading all shorstops with 18 defensive runs saved and a fielding run value of 15. Before becoming a big league star, Swanson played an integral role on the 2014 Collegiate National Team, helping the U.S. win gold at Haarlem Baseball Week.

SS Anthony Volpe (2013 12U, 2016 15U, 2018 18U National Teams): Volpe capped off a strong rookie year by becoming the youngest shortstop to ever win a Gold Glove Award. The three-time Team USA alum started 157 games at shortstop for the New York Yankees in his first big-league season, racking up 15 defensive runs saved. Volpe is no stranger to gold, as he captured gold medals at the 2013 World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) U-12 Baseball World Cup and the 2018 COPABE U-18 Pan American Championships.

Nine Team USA alumni became World Series Champions on Wednesday night, as the Texas Rangers defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks in five games to win the Fall Classic.

Cody Bradford, Matt Bush, Robbie Grossman, Travis Jankowski, Josh Jung, Ian Kennedy, Brad Miller, Corey Seager, and Max Scherzer all earned World Series rings with the Rangers’ 5-0 victory over Arizona in Game 5 on Wednesday night at Chase Field.

Corey Seager (2010 16U) led the way for Texas en route to winning his second World Series Most Valuable Player Award, becoming the first USA Baseball alumni to earn the award twice (also: 2020). As he did all postseason long, Seager served as a force in the Rangers’ lineup, batting .286 with three homers and six RBIs over the five-game set. The former 16U player set the tone in the series with a clutch, game-tying blast in the ninth inning of Game 1 before homering in wins in Games 4 and 5. He wrapped up the series with a 2-for-4 performance, scoring the game’s first run on Wednesday night.

2015 Professional Team alum Travis Jankowski played a key role late in the series for Texas. After ALCS MVP Adolis Garcia was removed from the roster following an injury in Game 3, Jankowski stepped up and started the final two games in right field. He was a huge lift in the Texas lineup in Game 4, going 2-for-4 with two runs scored, a pair of RBIs, and a sliding catch in right to make his presence known. He drew a walk in Game 5 and continued his strong outfield play, helping the Rangers finish off the series victory.

Josh Jung (2018 CNT) led the Rangers in hits in the Fall Classic, going 7-for-20 to bat .350 with a double. Jung collected a pair of knocks in the series opener before posting a 1-for-3 day in Game 2. The Texas Tech product then broke out with a three-hit, two-run performance in a pivotal Game 4 win in which he led off the second inning with a double and came home on a wild pitch to open the scoring outburst. Jung capped off his strong postseason with a hit and a run scored in the series-clinching win.

Jung’s 2018 CNT teammate, Cody Bradford, continued his stellar postseason with two scoreless innings across a pair of appearances in the World Series. Bradford first appeared in Game 1, retiring all three batters he faced over the sixth and seventh innings to keep Texas within striking distance. He returned to action in Game 4, setting down the side in order as the Rangers maintained a big lead. Overall in postseason play, Bradford allowed just one run in five appearances, tossing 7.2 innings for the World Series winners.

2005 CNT alum Max Scherzer started Game 3 and was in the midst of a vintage performance before an injury caused him to leave the game and be removed from the roster. Scherzer pitched three shutout innings before departing the mound, working around a bit of trouble but keeping Arizona off the board in a game the Rangers would go on to win, 3-1.

Four other Team USA alumni on the Rangers earned World Series rings. Robbie Grossman (2007 18U) got a pinch-hit at-bat in Game 2 and appeared in seven postseason games. Two-time alum Matt Bush was on the Wild Card and Division Series rosters for the Rangers, while three-time U.S. player Ian Kennedy along with Brad Miller (2009, 2010 CNT) both played for Texas this season before suffering season-ending injuries.

Both the American League and National League Championship Series went a full seven games, giving USA Baseball alumni plenty of time to shine on baseball’s biggest stage. Check out how Team USA alums performed in the latest round of the MLB Postseason!

DIAMONDBACKS VS. PHILLIES

The Arizona Diamondbacks came back from down 3-2 to beat the Philadelphia Phillies in a seven-game clash and win the NL pennant for the first time since 2001. The series featured an extensive list of USA Baseball alumni, as Corbin Carroll (2018 18U) helped lead the charge in knocking off the defending National League champs. The rookie sensation started every game in the outfield for the Diamondbacks and recorded six hits, two RBIs, and three runs scored. Alek Thomas played a pivotal role in Arizona’s Game 4 victory, as the 2017 18U alum homered in the eighth inning to tie the game at 5-5. Thomas recorded three hits and four RBIs and runs scored apiece en route to advancing to the World Series. Two-time USA Baseball alum Evan Longoria played primarily at third base and tacked on an RBI on a pair of hits. Paul Sewald (2015 Pro) continued to execute in big moments, as the closer finished with a 1-0 record, two saves, and struck out six batters in 4.0 innings pitched while conceding only one base hit. 2023 WBC participant Merrill Kelly surrendered six runs and struck out 14 Phillies batters in 10.2 innings, as he concluded the NLCS 1-1 in two starts.

On the flip side, USA Baseball alumni accounted for 39 of Philadelphia’s 51 hits and scored 29 of its 30 runs. Two-time alum Kyle Schwarber spearheaded Philadelphia's offense, as the everyday DH racked up five RBIs on eight hits with five of those hits by way of the long ball. Schwarber also reached base eight times via walk and scored eight runs. Pro Team alumni Alec Bohm and J.T. Realmuto each notched seven hits and started every game at third base and catcher, respectively. Bohm knocked in four runs while Realmuto scored four Phillies’ runs and collected six RBIs. 2008 16U and 2009 18U alum Bryce Harper scored seven runs and homered twice as part of his five hits while three-time alum Trea Turner also gathered five hits. Former CNT player Bryson Stott stayed active on the basepaths and stole four bases while tallying six base hits. 2009 18U alum Nick Castellanos contributed to the effort with a base knock and two runs batted in. On the mound, Craig Kimbrel (2013 WBC) allowed four runs over 3.0 innings while Michael Lorenzen (2008 16U, 2010 18U) conceded only one hit in 1.2 innings.

RANGERS VS. ASTROS

USA Baseball alumni shined in the seven-game battle between AL West foes, as the Texas Rangers advanced to the World Series and beat Houston in a competitive ALCS matchup. Corey Seager started every game at shortstop and provided Texas with a surge of offense, as the 2010 16U alum gathered a base knock in five of his seven games played. Seager’s stat line included eight hits, six runs scored, and three RBIs scattered across the seven-game stretch. Josh Jung was the Rangers’ everyday third baseman and played his part at the plate, as the 2018 CNT alum knocked in five runs on five hits and scored four runs. Robbie Grossman (2007 18U) played three games for Texas and scored a run while Travis Jankowski (2015 Pro) pinch ran three times and secured a base hit in a pinch-hit appearance. 2018 CNT alum Cody Bradford didn’t allow a hit in a 1.1 inning outing in Game 3 and tossed 0.2 innings in Game 4 in which he conceded one run.

The Astros go-to third baseman and five-time national team alum Alex Bregman played an integral role in Houston’s offense, as he notched six runs scored, five RBIs, six walks, and six hits including three home runs over seven games. Former 2012 15U and 2023 WBC player Kyle Tucker walked five times, scored two runs, and recorded two doubles as part of his four-hit series. The Houston bullpen featured a duo of former Team USA arms, as Ryan Pressly (2023 WBC) and two-time CNT alum Ryne Stanek each concluded the ALCS with a 1-0 record. Pressly posted a spotless 0.00 ERA with only two hits surrendered in 4.0 innings and collected a save in Game 3 while Stanek tossed 2.2 frames and yielded two runs on two hits. 2003 CNT alum Justin Verlander pitched 12.1 innings in two starts for the ‘Stros while striking out eight batters and giving up six runs.

The MLB Postseason has reached the World Series, with Game 1 of the Fall Classic set to take place on Friday night. Continue to follow @USABaseball on social media to keep up with Team USA alumni in the postseason!

MUMBAI, India – The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session announced today that baseball and softball will be on the Olympic Programme for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. This marks the first time since the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games that baseball and softball will be included in the prestigious event.

“We are thrilled that America’s pastime will be a part of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games,” said USA Baseball CEO Paul Seiler. “The inclusion of baseball and softball will undoubtedly enhance the experience of the Games, as both sports have enjoyed global success in recent years and deserve to be celebrated on the international stage. It is exciting to be able to return to the place that kickstarted baseball being on the Olympic Programme, as well as a location that boasts numerous professional teams and some of the most iconic players in today’s game. USA Baseball takes great pride in showcasing the nation’s best players in international competition, and we can’t wait for the opportunity to do so on home soil.”

The game of baseball has numerous ties to the Los Angeles area. It was first featured as a demonstration sport in the Los Angeles Games in 1984 before being a part of the Olympic Games from 1992-2008. Additionally, it is home to two MLB Clubs–the Los Angeles Angels and Los Angeles Dodgers–which include some of the world’s biggest stars.

Since its last inclusion in 2020, the game has enjoyed much success on a global stage, including record-breaking television and attendance numbers at the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Additionally, it has grown exponentially at the amateur level with increased participation at youth world championships and other numerous international events.

USA Baseball has enjoyed tremendous success at the Olympic Games, accumulating six total medals in seven appearances, including two editions as a demonstration sport. Team USA won gold in both 1988 (Seoul) and 2000 (Sydney), earned silver at the Tokyo 2020 Games, and captured bronze in 1984 (Los Angeles), 1996 (Atlanta), and 2008 (Beijing).

Information regarding Team USA’s roster and the schedule of events for baseball at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games will be announced at a later time. Follow @USABaseball on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X for the latest news on USA Baseball.

*Indicates baseball was a demonstration sport

Highlighted by incredible performances from Bryce Harper and Merrill Kelly (among many others), Team USA alums made a huge impact on the MLB Division Series. Check out the top performances!

RANGERS VS. ORIOLES

Familiar faces flooded the ALDS stat sheet in the Rangers’ sweep of Baltimore, as Josh Jung (2018 CNT) and Corey Seager (2010 16U) once again led Texas’ offense for the second straight series. In three games, Jung went 5-for-12 while homering once and scoring four times. Seager made MLB postseason history, as the shortstop’s nine walks were the most in any three-game span, while in Game 2 he became the first player to walk five times in a postseason contest. Seager did what he could with his bat, as he went 2-for-6 with a home run and four runs scored. Robbie Grossman (2007 18U) recorded a double in one game played while Baylor alum Cody Bradford (2018 CNT) came out of the bullpen in Game 2 and struck out four in 3.2 quiet innings to earn the win.

2013 18U alum Jack Flaherty gave up one run in Game 2 while Kyle Gibson (2008 CNT) surrendered only one hit and one run in three frames in Baltimore’s Game 3 loss. Adley Rutschman (2018 CNT) started all three games as the Orioles’ backstop and tallied a double. 2023 WBC alum Cedric Mullins started all three games in center field for Baltimore while Adam Frazier (2012 CNT) made a pair of appearances.

ASTROS VS. TWINS

Five-time alum Alex Bregman started all four games at third for the ‘Stros and played a crucial role in Game 3, hammering a home run to lead off the fifth in addition to an RBI base hit in the sixth. Former 2012 15U and 2023 WBC participant Kyle Tucker contributed with three walks and a pair of base knocks, one being an extra-base hit. On the flip side, three former Team USA players made an impact with their arms en route to Houston’s series win. Justin Verlander (2003 CNT) made a statement in Game 1, as he surrendered only four hits and struck out six in a six-inning shutout of Minnesota to earn the win. Two-time Collegiate National Team alum Ryne Stanek had an outing in Game 2 while Ryan Pressly (2023 WBC) made two ninth-inning appearances, earning saves on both occasions and punching out five of six batters faced.

For the second straight series, Royce Lewis showed off his pop, as the 2014 15U and 2016 18U alum collected three runs scored and a pair of home runs, the second handing the Twins an early 1-0 lead in a win-or-go-home Game 4. Kyle Farmer (2012 CNT) added on with a two-run home run of his own in Game 2, with that being his only appearance of the series. Matt Wallner (2018 Olympics) started two games in left field and notched a hit while walking twice. Representing more than a third of Minnesota’s pitching staff, Team USA saw a handful of its arms take the mound for the Twins. Two-time CNT alum Sonny Gray started Game 3 and lasted four innings before being saddled with the loss while Bailey Ober (2014 CNT) started Game 1 and had a similar outing, enduring 4.1 arduous frames before being pulled. Joe Ryan (2021 Olympics) was the starter in Game 4 and yielded one run over two innings while 2019 Premier12 participant Caleb Thielbar pitched 1.1 innings and gave up three runs.

DIAMONDBACKS VS. DODGERS

Corbin Carroll (2018 18U) maintained his offensive output and continued to represent the stars and stripes in stunning fashion, gathering three hits with a home run, three runs scored, four walks, and two stolen bases. Starting center fielder and 2017 18U gold medal winner Alek Thomas scored twice and blasted a home run while Evan Longoria picked up an extra-base hit and two RBIs for the Diamondbacks. Team USA showcased its arm talent for Arizona as well, as 2023 WBC alum Merrill Kelly tossed 6.1 shutout innings of three-hit ball to earn the win in a statement Game 1 victory. Paul Sewald (2015 Pan Am) made appearances in Game 2 and Game 3, allowing only one hit and earning the save both times to secure the sweep of Los Angeles.

Mookie Betts (2023 WBC) and 2005 16U and 2006 18U alum Freddie Freeman scored a run apiece and started all three games for the Dodgers while Kolten Wong (2009 CNT) made a pinch-hit appearance in all three games. Will Smith (2023 WBC) led the Los Angeles offense, as the catcher tallied five base knocks with two being extra-base hits as well as two RBIs over a three-game span. 2007 CNT alum Joe Kelly punched out three batters in 1.2 shutout innings while Clayton Kershaw (2005 18U) and two-time alum Lance Lynn combined for only three innings pitched and an 0-2 record.

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES VS. ATLANTA BRAVES

The Phillies led all MLB Clubs with nine Team USA alumni on their postseason roster, and all nine played a key role in the Phillies’ second Divisional Series victory over the Braves in as many years. Two-time CNT alum and World Baseball Classic alum Trea Turner carried the Philadelphia offense, collecting a series-most eight hits with a pair of home runs and RBIs, along with five runs scored. 2009 18U alum Nick Castellanos finished the four-game set on a tear, cranking two home runs in both Game 3 and Game 4 to finish off the series win. His 2009 teammate Bryce Harper blasted three homers, including two in a Game 3 win. J.T. Realmuto (2023 WBC) notched a home run and five RBIs, while Kyle Schwarber (2013 CNT, 2023 WBC) and Alec Bohm (2019 Pro) each chipped in two hits. 2018 CNT alum Bryson Stott picked up three hits and an RBI to cap off Philadelphia’s explosive offensive performance. On the mound, Craig Kimbrel (2013 WBC) pitched twice and allowed no runs while earning a save, and two-time U.S. alum Michael Lorenzen turned in a scoreless relief inning.

For Atlanta, 2010 16U player Matt Olson was a mainstay in the heart of the Braves’ order and picked up four hits while scoring a run. Travis d’Arnaud (2011 Pro) delivered a huge home run in Atlanta’s Game 2 victory, while 2014 CNT pitcher A.J. Minter made three dominant relief appearances, tossing 2.1 innings and not allowing an earned run.

The MLB Postseason rolls on to the Championship Series, with action set to begin on Sunday. Continue to follow along with Team USA alums in the postseason by following @USABaseball on X!

CARY, N.C. – Sixty-eight USA Baseball alumni have been named to Major League Baseball postseason rosters, USA Baseball announced on Saturday.

All 12 Clubs that made the postseason have at least two former Team USA players on their roster, including the Philadelphia Phillies, who lead all teams with nine alumni. The Baltimore Orioles, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Minnesota Twins, and the Miami Marlins–who were eliminated in the Wild Card Round–all placed seven USA Baseball alumni on their 26-man squads.

Eleven members of the 2023 World Baseball Classic Team, which earned a silver medal in March, were named to postseason rosters. In total, the list includes 28 players from the Collegiate National Team, 27 from the Professional National Team, 18 former members of the 18U National Team, seven players from the 16U National Team, and three alumni of the 15U National Team.

Following the conclusion of the Wild Card Round, the Division Series begins on Saturday with Game 1 of all four series set to take place.

The complete list of USA Baseball alumni in the 2023 postseason is as follows:

ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS

• Corbin Carroll; 2018 18U
• Merrill Kelly; 2023 WBC
• Evan Longoria; 2007 Pro, 2009 WBC
• Paul Sewald; 2015 Pro
• Alek Thomas; 2017 18U

ATLANTA BRAVES

• Travis d'Arnaud; 2011 Pro
• A.J. Minter; 2014 Collegiate
• Matt Olson; 2010 16U

BALTIMORE ORIOLES

• Jack Flaherty; 2013 18U
• Adam Frazier; 2012 Collegiate, 2015 Pro
• Kyle Gibson; 2008 Collegiate
• Heston Kjerstad; 2019 Collegiate
• James McCann; 2011 Pro
• Cedric Mullins; 2023 WBC
• Adley Rutschman; 2018 Collegiate

HOUSTON ASTROS

• Alex Bregman; 2010 16U, 2011 18U, 2013 & 2014 Collegiate, 2017 WBC
• Ryan Pressly; 2023 WBC
• Ryne Stanek; 2011 & 2012 Collegiate
• Kyle Tucker; 2012 15U, 2023 WBC
• Justin Verlander; 2003 Collegiate

LOS ANGELES DODGERS

• Mookie Betts; 2023 WBC
• Freddie Freeman; 2005 16U, 2006 18U
• Joe Kelly; 2007 Collegiate
• Clayton Kershaw; 2005 18U
• Lance Lynn; 2007 Collegiate, 2023 WBC
• Will Smith; 2023 WBC
• Kolten Wong; 2009 Collegiate

MINNESOTA TWINS

• Kyle Farmer; 2012 Collegiate
• Sonny Gray; 2009 & 2010 Collegiate
• Royce Lewis; 2014 15U, 2016 18U
• Bailey Ober; 2014 Collegiate
• Joe Ryan; 2021 Olympic
• Caleb Thielbar; 2019 Pro
• Matt Wallner; 2018 Collegiate

MIAMI MARLINS*

• Jake Burger; 2016 Collegiate
• Xavier Edwards; 2019 Pro
• Garrett Hampson; 2015 Collegiate
• Braxton Garrett; 2015 18U
• A.J. Puk; 2015 Collegiate
• David Robertson; 2017 WBC, 2021 Olympic
• Ryan Weathers; 2017 18U

MILWAUKEE BREWERS*

• Hoby Milner; 2011 Collegiate
• Brice Turang; 2014 15U, 2016 & 2017 18U
• Devin Williams; 2023 WBC
• Jesse Winker; 2011 18U
• Christian Yelich; 2017 WBC

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES

• Alec Bohm; 2019 Pro
• Nick Castellanos; 2009 18U
• Bryce Harper; 2008 16U, 2009 18U
• Craig Kimbrel; 2013 WBC
• Michael Lorenzen; 2008 16U, 2010 18U
• J.T. Realmuto; 2023 WBC
• Kyle Schwarber; 2013 Collegiate, 2023 WBC
• Bryson Stott; 2018 Collegiate
• Trea Turner; 2012 & 2013 Collegiate, 2023 WBC

TAMPA BAY RAYS*

• Zach Eflin; 2015 Pro
• Taylor Walls; 2016 Collegiate

TEXAS RANGERS

• Cody Bradford; 2018 Collegiate
• Matt Bush; 2002 16U, 2003 18U
• Robbie Grossman; 2007 18U
• Travis Jankowski; 2015 Pro
• Josh Jung; 2018 Collegiate
• Corey Seager; 2010 16U

TORONTO BLUE JAYS*

• Kevin Gausman; 2009 18U, 2011 Collegiate
• Cavan Biggio; 2012 18U
• Matt Chapman; 2013 Collegiate
• George Springer; 2010 Collegiate
• Daulton Varsho; 2019 Pro

*indicates Club was eliminated in Wild Card Round

The 2023 MLB Playoffs are underway, and Team USA alumni have already made their mark through the Wild Card round. Over 20 percent of the eight Wild Card rosters featured Team USA alums, and the 43 players representing USA Baseball had some standout performances through the first two days of the postseason. Catch up with all of the action below!

MARLINS VS. PHILLIES

Team USA alums were all over the diamond in Philadelphia, as 89% of the Phillies’ hits came from players who have previously donned the stars and stripes. Seven months after his hot bat carried Team USA at the World Baseball Classic, Trea Turner shined yet again in the clutch by going 4-for-7 with a pair of doubles and an RBI in the two-game sweep. His WBC teammates, J.T. Realmuto (3-for-8, HR, 2B) and Kyle Schwarber (2-for-8, 2B, R), were also key contributors in the series. Collegiate National Team alum Bryson Stott delivered the knockout blow in Game 2, blasting a grand slam in the sixth to put Philadelphia comfortably in front. 2009 18U teammates Nick Castellanos (2-for-8, 2 2B, RBI) and Bryce Harper (1-for-6, 2 BB, 2 R) also chipped in offensively, 2019 Pro Team alum Alec Bohm went 2-for-8 with a pair of doubles and an RBI, and 2013 WBC alum Craig Kimbrel tossed a scoreless ninth in Game 1 to earn the save.

On the other side, six U.S. alums saw action for the Marlins. 2016 CNT member Jake Burger collected a pair of hits while Xavier Edwards of the 2019 Pro Team notched a base hit in his only at-bat. The 2015 CNT was well-represented in Game 1, as Garrett Hampson had a pinch-hit assignment and A.J. Puk tossed a scoreless inning of relief. Three-time alum David Robertson and 2015 18U alum Braxton Garrett combined to toss five innings on the mound.

DIAMONDBACKS VS. BREWERS

Corbin Carroll was all over the stat sheet in the Diamondbacks’ two-game sweep, going 4-for-7 with a home run, three runs scored, two RBIs, and two walks. The 18U National Team alum’s home run came at a crucial juncture in Game 1, kickstarting Arizona’s comeback victory. Alek Thomas (2017 18U) hit a similar longball in Game 2 after Arizona fell behind early, hitting a solo shot in the fifth before a four-run sixth put the Diamondbacks in front. 2007 and 2009 Pro Team star Evan Longoria delivered a hit and made a huge defensive play in Game 1, starting a double play to escape a jam in the fifth. On the mound, Paul Sewald (2015 Pro) earned saves in both games with two shutout innings and three strikeouts.

For Milwaukee, 2017 WBC alum Christian Yelich led the way with four hits in eight at-bats, also drawing two walks. Yelich doubled in the ninth inning of Game 2 to try to lift the Brewers to a comeback, accounting for one of the team’s two doubles in the series. Three-time alum Brice Turang started both games at second base for the Brew Crew, while Jesse Winker (2011 18U) made a pair of pinch-hit appearances. 2011 CNT alum Hoby Milner pitched in both games and allowed no runs over 2.1 innings of work, while 2023 WBC relief pitcher Devin Williams also made an appearance on the mound in Game 1.

RANGERS VS. RAYS

Team USA alums Josh Jung (2018 CNT) and Corey Seager (2010 16U) played crucial roles in the Rangers’ sweep of Tampa Bay. Jung picked up three hits, with all of them coming in a 3-for-4 performance in Game 2, where he hit a pair of doubles and drove in a run. Seager went 4-for-8, collecting two hits in each game, including three doubles overall. The shortstop had two RBIs, scored twice, and drew two bases-on-balls, reaching in six of his 10 plate appearances. Robbie Grossman (2007 18U) was the three-hole hitter in both games for Texas and picked up a hit in nine at-bats.

2016 CNT player Taylor Walls started at shortstop in each of the two games for the Rays and posted a 2-for-6 stat line. Zach Eflin (2015 Pro) earned the Game 2 start and suffered the loss, yielding four runs in five frames.

TWINS VS. BLUE JAYS

Two-time Team USA alum Royce Lewis got the Twins started early in their two-game sweep over Toronto. The former 15U and 18U standout hit a pair of home runs in Game 1, sending blasts over the Target Field wall in each of his first two at-bats of the series. Lewis finished the two games going 2-for-6 with three RBIs, three runs scored, and two walks. 2012 CNT alum Kyle Farmer got a pinch-hit at-bat in Game 1, while Matt Wallner (2018 CNT) drew a walk in four plate appearances. On the hill, two-time CNT alum Sonny Gray was lights-out in Game 2, tossing five shutout innings with six strikeouts to earn the win. 2019 Pro Team pitcher Caleb Thielbar threw in both games and did not allow a run in 1.2 innings of work.

With their stints on the Collegiate National Team separated by three years, Matt Chapman and George Springer combined for three hits and a walk for the Blue Jays offensively. Cavan Biggio (2012 18U) chipped in a hit in eight at-bats, while 2019 Pro Team member Daulton Varsho started both games in left field. Two-time Team USA alum Kevin Gausman got the ball to start Game 1 and suffered the loss after allowing three runs in four innings pitched.

The 2023 MLB Playoffs continue with Division Series action, beginning on Saturday. Be sure to follow @USABaseball on all social media to keep up with Team USA alums in the postseason!

CARY, N.C. – Twenty-five USA Baseball alumni were selected for the 2023 MLB All-Star Game, which will take place at T-Mobile Park in Seattle tonight, Tuesday, July 11, at 8:00 p.m. ET.

The National League (NL) roster features 15 alums, and 10 American League (AL) players also have experience with USA Baseball.

Seven alumni were selected to the starting lineup, including four for the NL and three for the AL. Nolan Arenado (St. Louis Cardinals), Mookie Betts (Los Angeles Dodgers), Corbin Carroll (Arizona Diamondbacks), and Freddie Freeman (Los Angeles Dodgers) were all named to the NL starting lineup for Tuesday night. Josh Jung (Texas Rangers), Corey Seager (Texas Rangers), and Mike Trout (Los Angeles Angels) were voted into the starting lineup for the AL. Due to injury, however, Trout will not participate in the Midsummer Classic.

Twelve 2023 All-Stars have won a gold medal with the United States. The roster features players from seven different gold medal-winning teams, including two members of the 2017 World Baseball Classic team that won the organization’s first-ever championship at the event and eight players from the 2023 World Baseball Classic squad that earned silver this past March.

In total, 12 players competed for the Professional National Team, eight played for the Collegiate National Team, six suited up for the 18U National Team, four were members of the former 16U National Team, and one appeared on the 15U National Team.

The complete list of USA Baseball alumni named 2023 MLB All-Star Game rosters is as follows:

Name; MLB Team; USA Baseball National Team Program(s):

• Pete Alonso; New York Mets; 2023 WBC
• Nolan Arenado; St. Louis Cardinals; 2017, 2023 WBC
• David Bednar; Pittsburgh Pirates; 2023 WBC
• Mookie Betts; Los Angeles Dodgers; 2023 WBC
• Corbin Carroll; Arizona Diamondbacks; 2018 18U
• Nick Castellanos; Philadelphia Phillies; 2009 18U
• Gerrit Cole; New York Yankees; 2009, 2010 Collegiate
• Freddie Freeman; Los Angeles Dodgers; 2005 16U; 2006 18U
• Kevin Gausman; Toronto Blue Jays; 2009 18U; 2011 Collegiate
• Sonny Gray; Minnesota Twins; 2009, 2010 Collegiate
• Josh Hader; San Diego Padres; 2015 Pro
• Josh Jung; Texas Rangers; 2018 Collegiate
• *Clayton Kershaw; Los Angeles Dodgers; 2005 18U
• Craig Kimbrel; Philadelphia Phillies; 2013 WBC
• Michael Lorenzen; Detroit Tigers; 2008 16U; 2010 18U; 2011, 2012 Collegiate
• Matt Olson; Atlanta Braves; 2010 16U
• Brent Rooker; Oakland Athletics; 2019 Pro
• Adley Rutschman; Baltimore Orioles; 2018 Collegiate
• Corey Seager; Texas Rangers; 2010 16U
• Will Smith; Los Angeles Dodgers; 2023 WBC
• *Marcus Stroman; Chicago Cubs; 2011 Collegiate; 2017 WBC
• *Dansby Swanson; Chicago Cubs; 2014 Collegiate
• *Mike Trout; Los Angeles Angels; 2010 Pro; 2023 WBC
• Kyle Tucker; Houston Astros; 2012 15U; 2023 WBC
• *Devin Williams; Milwaukee Brewers; 2023 WBC

*denotes All-Stars who are inactive

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Representing Team USA as a coach or player is an experience unlike any other. It is an opportunity for some of the best in baseball to come together to pursue a common goal: to win gold on the international stage.

From the outside looking in, most people only get to see the surface of what it entails to put together a national team. Public announcements of who will make up the coaching staff and roster, the schedule of events, and the outcome are all just a small part of what goes on behind the scenes to compile the best possible team.

Behind the scenes, a considerable amount effort from the USA Baseball staff goes into the process of identifying a leader, determining a staff, and building a roster. It is a process that begins roughly six to nine months before that respective team’s international competition and involves difficult and complex decisions.

“Constructing a national team is like a puzzle, and everything that we do behind the scenes contributes to not only identifying the best players, but the best people to make up a coaching staff and support staff,” said USA Baseball Chief Executive Office Paul Seiler. “One of the biggest challenges is making sure we find the right pieces so that at least when we begin our journey to playing for a gold medal, we feel like the puzzle is pretty completed. We have a good picture of where we want to go and how we will get there.”

ASSEMBLING THE STAFF

The primary part of assembling a national team is identifying a manager who will lead and embody what it means to represent Team USA. USA Baseball’s staff considers many variables when choosing who to give that responsibility to. Of course, their prior successes on the field matter, but more importantly, how they can connect with and motivate players and embrace what Team USA stands for helps complete the makeup of the ideal manager.

“The process of identifying a manager for a national team varies between the programs,” said National Teams General Manager Ashley Bratcher. “You need that person to be familiar with the age of the athletes who they will ultimately lead, but also, we try to look for someone that will represent our national team programs well and uphold our standards and expectations of our athletes.”

But just as important as identifying the right manager to lead a national team, it is just as vital for the manager to surround themselves with a staff that can identify the top talent and character at the respective identification events for their squad.

“I tried to surround myself with knowledgeable people through the entire process, people at all levels from high school, to college, to pro, to working with USA Baseball,” recalled 2022 18U National Team Manager Denny Hocking, who led Team USA to gold medals at the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup and World Cup Americas Qualifier.

“My number one thing while being in charge of a team is building relationships, so for me, it was important to put people in roles at the PDP League where they would be able to learn about the kids because I wanted an honest evaluation of the 100 players that we had there. It was about what 20 puzzle pieces we were going to put together in order to be the best representation of Team USA.”

THE IDENTIFICATION PROCESS

When preparing for an international competition, determining a roster is one of the most complex parts of the entire process. From the hundreds of players in each age group who put their talent on display to the coaches and staff members, only 18 are selected for the 12U National Team, while 20 are chosen for the 15U, 18U, and Women’s National Teams. Meanwhile, the Collegiate National Team carries 26 players and the Professional National Team’s roster size ranges from 24-30 players based on the event.

It’s not always about finding the best players, though. It’s about finding the right players.

“When we’re identifying players, we tend to look for qualities that would play well in the international environment,” explained 2022 15U National Team Manager Drew Briese, who led the team to its second consecutive World Cup title last summer. “An international environment can be very hostile, so some of the things that we were looking for with that [15U] team were guys who were highly competitive, had the ability to handle adversity, and their qualities as a person fit into the team dynamic.

“If you want to find the right folks to hit the field and win that gold medal, you have to have that mentality in the team chemistry and dynamic in order to do it.”

Selecting a national team is an intricate process. With such a large pool of talented players to choose from that can compete at a high level, the few who are selected must be able to not only fill the roles needed but also have the intangibles. The things that can’t be taught on a ball field.

“Everyone's pretty much in agreement on who the first 10 to 12 players are, but it's those last few pieces for the roles that we need that you can't miss on because those are what's really going to determine your success,” said 2022 12U National Team Manager R.J. Farrell, who guided the squad to an 8-0 record and a gold medal at the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup. “It’s tough at any age group once you get the top players to Training Camp. They all can play the game, and they all bring something that's really, really good.

“When you start getting to where you're going to make the selection of who's going to actually make the national team, it comes down to who fits what piece that we feel we need. It’s a really difficult process, and there’s a lot of conversation involved. But at the end of the day, it's what we have to do.”

Most national teams have a primary identification event where the national team staff and a group of Task Force members carefully evaluate every player in the event. However, the selection process varies between each national team program.

For the 12U and 15U teams, the process for selecting players starts at USA Baseball’s identification events: The Futures Invitational, the National Team Championships in Arizona and North Carolina, and the National Team Identification Series.

The primary identification event for the 18U National Team is the Prospective Development Pipeline (PDP) League, which features 100 of the top eligible players for the following year’s draft. Meanwhile, the Women’s National Team process begins with the Women’s National Open, a three-day event for players around the country to compete for a Team USA roster spot.

In addition to the Women’s National Open, a large chunk of the identification for the Women’s National Team comes from various joint events that USA Baseball hosts alongside Major League Baseball throughout the calendar year. With women’s baseball still on the rise, these events give staff members and players a unique chance to build relationships while honing in on the development aspect of the game.

From these identification events, the coaching staff determines a Training Camp roster of 36-72 players to advance to the next step towards deciding who will wear U-S-A across their chest.

With the Collegiate National Team, the best 48-56 non-draft eligible players are selected for a Training Camp as the initial step towards identifying its national team each year. With the short time window from the end of the college season to when the team preps for its event, the players are evaluated throughout their season, giving USA Baseball a chance to recognize the best of college baseball.

“It's great for USA Baseball to put together its very best collegiate players to play international competition year in and year out,” said Professional and Collegiate National Teams General Manager Eric Campbell. “But the segment where college players play peer to peer during our annual Stars and Stripes series in which we pick our final team is an exceptional week and a lifetime baseball experience that no one will forget, regardless of if they make the final national team or not.”

Likewise, with the Professional National Teams, those squads are composed of the top Minor League Baseball and Major League Baseball players who are evaluated based on current and past performances at the professional level.

“It's exciting when MLB designates a pool of players that are available for a Professional National Team event,” added Campbell. “Those guys are playing for their club and are reaching for the pinnacle of the game, but it's exciting for everyone at USA Baseball when we can put our nation's uniform on those professional players. They've earned it based on their performance in any given year.”

For the national teams that select their roster from Training Camp, that stage could be considered the toughest part of the entire process. It is an intense three to four days and with a lot of conversation involved. Each night, the coaching staffs hold a meeting to evaluate the talent in front of them and determine who will represent Team USA. Because so many factors go into deciding that 18-20 player roster, the conversations can take hours.

“The difficulty during Training Camp to figure out that final roster is unlike anything else you experience,” said former 12U and 15U National Team Program Director Will Schworer. “Being in that room where they're talking about phenomenal athletes and how one might carry himself better off the field, or how one has a better bat but another player might be better defensively, is intense. The conversations can last hours, and it’s not an easy process.

“Just getting to the Training Camp roster is difficult, but once you’re looking for those final 18-20 guys, you really have to consider the intangibles on top of the talent. A lot of deep conversation goes into that selection process, and it’s not an easy one.”

SELECTION DAY

Once a national team is selected, several different emotions surface for all involved. There’s the slight relief that the selection process has been completed, so much excitement that the best possible roster has been put together, and anticipation to really begin the journey to win gold.

“Selection Day is an interesting day because not only am I telling 20 players that they have made the national team, but I am also releasing 20 players and letting them know they didn’t make the team,” said USA Baseball alum and two-time Women’s National Team Manager Veronica Alvarez. “It’s a mix of emotions because I very much empathize with those players who I have to release knowing how hard they have worked to get to that stage, but it’s also exciting to present the news to the 20 who make it and let them know they are representing USA Baseball.

“By selecting someone to the Women's National Team, it means that not only have they excelled on the field, but that they encompass everything that it means to represent the game and represent women within the game.”

Alvarez is a four-time Women’s National Team alum and served as manager in 2019 and 2022, so having the experience as a player and a manager has given her a deeper appreciation for what it truly means to wear the U-S-A letters across your chest.

“Having been a player on the Women’s National Team, I have a love and passion for what it means to represent Team USA. I have really high expectations for the women who follow because I want them to be successful and understand what that looks like. But now, being on the coaching side, I’ve moved away from having a personal goal or accomplishment, and I now understand what it means to help somebody else accomplish a goal. I wear the uniform with pride and very much feel this responsibility to uphold the standards of USA Baseball and what it means to be a woman within the game.”

The journey to pursuing gold is extensive, but it is one that provides so much reward to all involved. It’s a gratifying experience for those staff members and coaches who get to see all of the months of hard work finally come to fruition when Team USA competes on the international stage. Therefore, no matter what capacity you are serving in, it’s a badge of honor to be able to represent the red, white, and blue through America’s Pastime.

CARY, N.C. – USA Baseball announced today that 156 alumni kicked off the 2023 Major League Baseball season on Opening Day rosters. In addition, all 30 Major League Clubs feature at least two former USA Baseball national team members to begin the season.

The New York Mets lead all clubs with 11 former Team USA members, while the Philadelphia Phillies have the second-most on their roster with nine. The Chicago Cubs, Seattle Mariners, and St. Louis Cardinals have eight each on their roster, and seven alums are with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Los Angeles Angels, Milwaukee Brewers, and San Diego Padres.

In total, 23 of the 30 Clubs feature four or more players who suited up for the red, white, and blue in international competition.

Three alums were named as the Opening Day starting pitchers for their respective clubs: Miles Mikolas (St. Louis Cardinals), Max Scherzer (New York Mets), and Marcus Stroman (Chicago Cubs). Mikolas most recently won a silver medal with Team USA at the 2023 World Baseball Classic, where he surrendered one earned run in a combined six innings out of the bullpen.

Brice Turang (Milwaukee Brewers) and Blake Sabol (San Francisco Giants) debuted on an MLB roster to begin the 2023 season; meanwhile, reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Justin Verlander is in his 18th season in the big leagues and reigning NL MVP Paul Goldschmidt began his 11th season in the MLB on Friday.

Eight alums are managing around the league, including Aaron Boone (New York Yankees), Terry Francona (Cleveland Guardians), Joe Girardi (Philadelphia Phillies), AJ Hinch (Detroit Tigers), Mark Kotsay (Oakland Athletics), Dave Roberts (Los Angeles Dodgers), David Ross (Chicago Cubs), and Scott Servais (Seattle Mariners). Francona is the only alum managing an MLB team that has played and coached for a USA Baseball national team.

Additionally, five USA Baseball Golden Spikes Award winners find themselves on an opening day roster, including a pair of Chicago White Sox teammates in Andrew Benintendi and Andrew Vaughn, as well as Kris Bryant (Colorado Rockies), Kyle Lewis(Seattle Mariners), and Adley Rutschman (Baltimore Orioles).

The complete list of USA Baseball alumni on Opening Day rosters is as follows:

Arizona Diamondbacks

• Corbin Carroll – 2018 18U
• Zach Davies – 2007 14U
• Merrill Kelly – 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Evan Longoria – 2007 Professional; 2009 World Baseball Classic
• Jake McCarthy – 2017 Collegiate
• Scott McGough – 2010 Collegiate; 2021 Olympics
• Alek Thomas – 2017 18U

Atlanta Braves

• Travis d'Arnaud - 2011 Professional
• A.J. Minter - 2014 Collegiate
• Matt Olson - 2010 16U

Baltimore Orioles

• Adam Frazier - 2012 Collegiate; 2015 Professional
• Kyle Gibson - 2008 Collegiate
• Cole Irvin - 2011 18U
• Cedric Mullins - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Adley Rutschman - 2018 Collegiate

Boston Red Sox

• Triston Casas - 2015 15U; 2016 & 2017 18U; 2021 Olympics
• Tanner Houck - 2015 & 2016 Collegiate; 2019 Professional
• Reese McGuire - 2012 18U
• Robert Refsnyder - 2007 16U

Chicago Cubs

• Nico Hoerner - 2011 14U; 2012 15U
• Eric Hosmer - 2007 18U; 2010 Professional; 2013 & 2017 World Baseball Classic
• Nick Madrigal - 2011 14U; 2012 15U; 2014 18U; 2017 Collegiate
• Drew Smyly – 2011 Professional; 2017 World Baseball Classic
• Marcus Stroman - 2011 Collegiate; 2017 World Baseball Classic
• Dansby Swanson - 2014 Collegiate
• Jameson Taillon - 2009 18U
• Keegan Thompson - 2011 16U; 2012 18U

Chicago White Sox

• Tim Anderson - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Yasmani Grandal - 2009 Collegiate
• Kendall Graveman - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Joe Kelly - 2007 Collegiate
• Lance Lynn - 2007 Collegiate; 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Andrew Vaughn - 2013 15U; 2017 & 2018 Collegiate; 2019 Professional

Cincinnati Reds - 3

• Will Benson - 2015 18U
• TJ Friedl - 2016 Collegiate
• Hunter Greene - 2014 15U; 2015 & 2016 18U

Cleveland Guardians

• Hunter Gaddis - 2017 Collegiate
• Cam Gallagher - 2015 Professional

Colorado Rockies

• Daniel Bard - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Kris Bryant - 2012 Collegiate
• Kyle Freeland - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Mike Moustakas - 2006 18U; 2010 Professional

Detroit Tigers

• Riley Greene - 2017 18U
• Alex Lange - 2016 Collegiate
• Austin Meadows - 2011 16U
• Spencer Torkelson - 2018 & 2019 Collegiate

Houston Astros

• Alex Bregman - 2010 16U; 2011 18U; 2013 & 2014 Collegiate; 2017 World Baseball Classic
• Ryan Pressly - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Ryne Stanek - 2011 & 2012 Collegiate
• Kyle Tucker - 2012 15U; 2023 World Baseball Classic

Kansas City Royals

• Jackie Bradley Jr. - 2010 Collegiate
• MJ Melendez - 2016 18U
• Brady Singer - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Bobby Witt Jr. - 2018 18U; 2023 World Baseball Classic

Los Angeles Angels

• Tyler Anderson - 2010 Collegiate
• Reid Detmers - 2019 Collegiate
• Brett Phillips - 2015 Professional
• Anthony Rendon - 2010 Collegiate
• Matt Thaiss - 2015 Collegiate
• Mike Trout - 2010 Professional; 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Taylor Ward - 2014 Collegiate

Los Angeles Dodgers

• Mookie Betts - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Freddie Freeman - 2005 16U; 2006 18U
• Clayton Kershaw - 2005 18U
• Will Smith - 2023 World Baseball Classic

Miami Marlins

• Braxton Garrett - 2015 18U
• A.J. Puk - 2015 Collegiate

Milwaukee Brewers

• Matt Bush - 2002 16U; 2003 18U
• Hoby Milner - 2011 Collegiate
• Garrett Mitchell - 2019 Collegiate
• Brice Turang - 2014 15U; 2016 & 2017 18U
• Devin Williams - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Jesse Winker - 2011 18U
• Christian Yelich - 2017 World Baseball Classic

Minnesota Twins

• Kyle Farmer - 2012 Collegiate
• Joey Gallo - 2011 18U
• Sonny Gray - 2009 & 2010 Collegiate
• Joe Ryan - 2021 Olympics
• Cole Sands - 2012 15U; 2016 Collegiate
• Caleb Thielbar - 2019 Professional

New York Mets

• Pete Alonso - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Tommy Hunter - 2006 Collegiate
• Francisco Lindor - 2009 16U; 2010 18U
• Jeff McNeil - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Stephen Nogosek - 2009 14U; 2015 Collegiate
• Adam Ottavino - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• David Peterson - 2016 Collegiate
• Brooks Raley - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• David Robertson - 2017 World Baseball Classic; 2021 Olympics
• Max Scherzer - 2005 Collegiate
• Justin Verlander - 2003 Collegiate

New York Yankees

• Kyle Higashioka - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Giancarlo Stanton – 2013 & 2017 World Baseball Classic
• Jose Trevino - 2012 Collegiate
• Anthony Volpe - 2013 12U; 2016 15U; 2018 18U

Oakland Athletics

• Nick Allen - 2013 15U; 2016 18U; 2021 Olympics
• Zach Jackson - 2015 Collegiate
• Shea Langeliers - 2018 Collegiate
• Brent Rooker - 2019 Professional

Philadelphia Phillies

• Alec Bohm - 2019 Professional
• Nick Castellanos - 2009 18U
• Dalton Guthrie - 2016 Collegiate
• Josh Harrison - 2017 World Baseball Classic
• Craig Kimbrel - 2013 World Baseball Classic
• JT Realmuto - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Kyle Schwarber - 2013 Collegiate; 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Bryson Stott - 2018 Collegiate
• Trea Turner - 2012 & 2013 Collegiate; 2023 World Baseball Classic

Pittsburgh Pirates

• David Bednar - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Chase De Jong - 2011 18U
• Ke'Bryan Hayes - 2014 18U
• Andrew McCutchen - 2004 18U; 2017 World Baseball Classic
• Bryan Reynolds - 2014 Collegiate

San Diego Padres

• Jake Cronenworth - 2019 Professional
• David Dahl - 2011! 18U
• Trenton Grisham - 2014! 18U
• Josh Hader - 2015 Professional
• Nick Martinez - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Michael Wacha - 2011 Collegiate
• Ryan Weathers - 2017! 18U

San Francisco Giants

• Michael Conforto - 2012 & 2013 Collegiate
• Brandon Crawford - 2006 Collegiate; 2017 World Baseball Classic
• Blake Sabol - 2013 15U

Seattle Mariners

• JP Crawford - 2009 14U
• Marco Gonzales - 2012 Collegiate
• Jarred Kelenic - 2016 & 2017 18U
• Penn Murfee - 2019 Professional
• AJ Pollock - 2011 Professional
• Robbie Ray - 2009 18U
• Paul Sewald - 2015 Professional
• Kolten Wong - 2009 Collegiate

St. Louis Cardinals

• Nolan Arenado - 2017 & 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Alec Burleson - 2019 Collegiate
• Jack Flaherty - 2013 18U
• Paul Goldschmidt - 2017 & 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Nolan Gorman - 2017 18U
• Miles Mikolas - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Andre Pallante - 2018 Collegiate
• Zack Thompson - 2018 Collegiate

Tampa Bay Rays

• Jason Adam - 2023 World Baseball Classic
• Zach Eflin - 2015 Professional
• Taylor Walls - 2016 Collegiate

Texas Rangers

• Robbie Grossman - 2007 18U
• Travis Jankowski - 2015 Professional
• Josh Jung - 2018 Collegiate
• Ian Kennedy - 2002 18U; 2004 & 2005 Collegiate
• Brad Miller - 2009 & 2010 Collegiate
• Corey Seager - 2010 16U

Toronto Blue Jays

• Cavan Biggio - 2012 18U
• Matt Chapman - 2013 Collegiate
• Kevin Gausman - 2009 18U; 2011 Collegiate
• George Springer - 2010 Collegiate
• Dalton Varsho - 2019 Professional

Washington Nationals

• CJ Abrams - 2018 18U
• Mason Thompson - 2013 15U
• Trevor Williams - 2012 Collegiate

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
USA	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	2	9	0
Japan	0	2	0	1	0	0	0	0	x	3	5	0

BOX SCORE - PLAYS - CUMULATIVE

MIAMI, Fla. – Team USA fell to Japan, 3-2, in front of a sold-out crowd in the title game of the World Baseball Classic on Tuesday night at loanDepot Park. The U.S. finished the tournament with a 5-2 record in the fifth edition of the event.

After the U.S. grabbed an early lead, Japan (7-0) jumped in front in the bottom of the second and held the lead for most of the game. Team USA threatened throughout the game, outhitting Japan 9-5 and getting within a run entering the ninth inning, but was unable to scratch the tying run across.

Trea Turner continued his record-breaking performance in the World Baseball Classic by getting the scoring started for the U.S. on Tuesday. With one out and nobody on in the bottom of the second inning, Turner launched his fourth home run in the past three games to give Team USA a 1-0 lead. The 406-foot blast to left, which was Turner’s fifth, tied him for the most home runs in a single World Baseball Classic (Seung Youp Lee, 2006), and broke the U.S. record for RBIs in a single tournament with 11.

Japan tacked on two runs in the bottom of the second, but U.S. reliever Aaron Loup entered the game with the bases loaded and was able to limit the damage to keep the game within striking distance at 2-1.

The stars and stripes squandered a scoring chance in the top of the third, drawing a pair of walks to put two on with two out for their hottest hitter in Turner. But he was unable to deliver this time, striking out to strand the baserunners.

Japan tacked on another run in the bottom of the fourth on a solo homer to take a 3-1 lead, and Team USA threatened again in the fifth and seventh innings. Singles by Mookie Betts and Nolan Arenado got the U.S. crowd on its feet in the top of the fifth, but an inning-ending fly out halted the rally and kept the U.S. deficit at two. Pinch-hitter Jeff McNeil led off the top of the seventh inning with a four-pitch walk and Betts singled to put two on with no outs, but a fly out and double play ended the threat.

Kyle Schwarber got the U.S. back within a run in the bottom of the eighth. The lefty fouled off six consecutive pitches before smoking the 10th pitch of the at-bat into the upper deck in right field for his second home run of the tournament to cut Team USA’s deficit to one.

McNeil drew a walk to lead off the top of the ninth against Shohei Ohtani, but a double play ball from Betts and a Trout strikeout ended Team USA’s tournament with a silver medal.

Betts (2-for-5) and Turner (2-for-4, HR, RBI) paced the offense with multi-hit games, while Schwarber’s (1-for-3, HR, RBI) homer provided the only other run. Trout (1-for-5) picked up a hit for the sixth consecutive game and reached base in all seven games of the tournament, the only U.S. player to do so.

Starting pitcher Merrill Kelly (0-1) lasted 1.1 innings and surrendered two runs on three hits to suffer the loss. The stars and stripes got solid work out of the bullpen, which allowed just one run over the final 6.2 innings pitched. Kyle Freeland provided the bulk of the work in relief, turning in three innings of one-run baseball. Jason Adam, David Bednar, and Devin Williams all pitched scoreless innings.

Trout and Turner both represented Team USA on the All-Tournament Team for their standout performances. Trout batted .296 with a homer and seven RBIs for the stars and stripes, reaching base at a .406 clip throughout tournament play. Turner hit a tournament-leading and record-tying five homers and drove in a team record-setting 11 runs, batting .391 and leading the team with a 1.483 slugging percentage.

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Cuba	1	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	2	12	0
USA	2	1	2	2	2	4	0	1	x	14	14	1

BOX SCORE - PLAYS - CUMULATIVE STATS

MIAMI, Fla. – Trea Turner continued his World Baseball Classic tear with two home runs, and the U.S. hit a team-record four blasts to lift Team USA to a 14-2 win over Cuba in the semifinals on Sunday night at loanDepot Park. With the win, the U.S. clinches its spot in Tuesday’s title game and will aim to defend its world title against the winner of the second semifinal between Japan and Mexico.

The United States will appear in the World Baseball Classic championship game for the second straight tournament after beating Puerto Rico in the 2017 title game.

After falling behind 1-0 in the top of the first inning, the U.S. offense wasted no time taking a lead it would not relinquish on the night. The stars and stripes scored in each of the game’s first six innings and seven of their eight turns at bat overall, marking the first time in Team USA’s history that it scored in six straight innings at the World Baseball Classic.

Paul Goldschmidt started the scoring for Team USA in the first with a two-run shot to go up 2-1. The 112 mph-home run drove in the 13th and 14th first-inning runs for the stars and stripes in the tournament, giving them the second-most all-time in a single World Baseball Classic (Korea, 19 in 2009).

The U.S. left the yard again in the second inning, this time off the bat of Turner. After hitting a go-ahead grand slam in Saturday’s quarterfinal, Turner stayed hot and crushed another no-doubter, a 428-foot solo shot to left, to increase Team USA’s lead to 3-1. Turner became only the second U.S. player in history to hit home runs in back-to-back World Baseball Classic plate appearances, joining his U.S. hitting coach, Ken Griffey Jr. (2006 vs. South Africa).

Nolan Arenado singled in the bottom of the third before a hit-by-pitch and a walk loaded the bases for Pete Alonso, who roped an RBI-single to left to plate Team USA’s fourth run. The lead grew to 5-1 on a sacrifice fly by Tim Anderson, bringing Kyle Schwarber home for the second run of the inning.

Cuba added a run in the fifth, but Team USA’s offense continued to pour it on in the middle innings, scoring another two runs in both the fourth and fifth innings to take a commanding 9-2 lead. St. Louis Cardinals teammates Arenado and Goldschmidt were in the middle of the scoring, as Goldschmidt drew a walk and came around to score on Arenado’s RBI-triple down the right field line in the fourth. Arenado–whose triple gave the U.S. a tournament-leading six three-baggers–later scored on a wild pitch before Goldschmidt smoked a two-run single in the fifth for the seven-run advantage.

The U.S. outburst continued into the bottom of the sixth after Will Smith began the inning with a double and Jeff McNeil drew a walk to bring Turner to the plate. He continued his dominant two-game stretch, demolishing a three-run blast to left to extend the lead to 12-2.

Mookie Betts and Mike Trout combined to score another run for Team USA in the sixth, as Betts singled and scored on a line-drive double from Trout. After entering as a pinch runner in the seventh inning, Cedric Mullins put the finishing touches on the victory with a solo homer on the first pitch he saw in the bottom of the eighth for the team’s fourth longball of the night to make it 14-2.

Adam Wainwright (2-0) got the start for the United States and withstood a stressful first inning before settling down to toss four frames of one-run ball. Wainwright, who now owns a 2.25 ERA in tournament play, scattered five hits and struck out one batter to earn the win. Miles Mikolas followed Wainwright and pitched four solid innings of relief, allowing just one run and striking out three before Aaron Loup got the final three outs in the top of the ninth to advance Team USA to the finals.

The stars and stripes tallied 14 hits for the second night in a row. Betts (3-for-6) and Turner (3-for-5, 2 HR, 4 RBI) combined for almost half of the knocks, while Arenado (2-for-3, RBI) and Goldschmidt (2-for-5, HR, 4 RBI) also contributed multi-hit games. Mullins (1-for-1, HR, RBI) homered in his only at-bat, becoming the seventh U.S. player to homer in tournament play.

Including Saturday’s quarterfinal win over Venezuela, the U.S. scored 23 runs on 28 hits over the past two games.

Following Turner’s two-homer night on Sunday, he now owns the U.S. record for most home runs in a single World Baseball Classic (4) and is tied with Griffey Jr. and David Wright for the most RBIs in a single tournament (10). He is also the tournament leader in homers and is tied for the most RBIs.

Team USA returns to action on Tuesday night for the World Baseball Classic title game against the winner of Mexico vs. Japan. First pitch is set for 7:00 p.m. ET at loanDepot Park in Miami, Florida, and the game will be televised on Fox Sports 1.

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
USA	3	0	0	1	1	0	0	4	0	9	14	0
Venezuela	2	0	0	0	4	0	1	0	0	7	8	3

BOX SCORE - PLAYS - CUMULATIVE STATS

MIAMI, Fla. – Trea Turner launched a go-ahead grand slam in the top of the eighth inning to lift Team USA to a 9-7 quarterfinal win over Venezuela on Saturday night at loanDepot Park. The U.S. secured its spot in the World Baseball Classic semifinal round with the win.

It will be Team USA’s second-consecutive trip to the World Baseball Classic semifinal round and its third overall.

Trailing by two runs in the top of the eighth, the United States (4-1) put together a furious rally capped by Turner’s grand slam to take the lead. Tim Anderson drew a leadoff walk, Pete Alonso hit a pinch-hit bloop single, and J.T. Realmuto was hit by a pitch to load the bases with nobody out for Turner. After a pitching change, Turner fell behind 0-2 before crushing a grand slam deep over the left-field wall to put Team USA in front for good, 9-7.

Turner’s grand slam was the third in Team USA’s history at the World Baseball Classic and the first since David Wright’s slam against Italy in 2013.

The U.S. kicked the game off with five consecutive hits in the top of the first to take an immediate 3-0 lead in the quarterfinal matchup. Mookie Betts led off the game with an infield single and came around to score when Mike Trout blooped a single to center field and Venezuela’s Ronald Acuña Jr. made a throwing error to advance the runners. Trout was then plated on an RBI-knock by Paul Goldschmidt, and–after a Nolan Arenado single put runners on the corners–Kyle Tucker singled up the middle to bring home Goldschmidt.

It was the first time the U.S. had five consecutive hits without recording an out in a World Baseball Classic game since 2006 against South Africa.

Venezuela (4-1) responded by scoring twice in the bottom of the first to trim its deficit to one. Then, the stars and stripes put a leadoff batter on for the third time in the first four innings in the top of the fourth to kick off another run-scoring frame. Kyle Schwarber pulled a base hit past the shift into right field and advanced to third on a throwing error before scoring on a Betts sacrifice fly, making it 4-2 in favor of Team USA.

With two outs and nobody on, Tucker added to the red, white, and blue’s lead in the top of the fifth. The lefty launched a 1-1 pitch over the wall in right to give the U.S. a 5-2 advantage, becoming the fifth different player to homer for Team USA in the tournament.

Venezuela capitalized on wild U.S. pitching and timely hitting to take a 6-5 lead, scoring four runs in the bottom of the fifth and taking the lead for the first time in the game. The lead grew to 7-5 on a solo shot in the bottom of the seventh before Turner’s heroics capped Team USA’s four-run eighth inning.

Lance Lynn started on the mound for the United States and pitched four solid frames in a no-decision, allowing just two runs in the bottom of the first. Lynn finished his night by striking out the potential game-tying run in the bottom of the fourth for one of his two punch-outs on the night. David Bednar (1-0) earned the win after allowing a run in an otherwise uneventful seventh. Adam Ottavino and Devin Williams each recorded two strikeouts in scoreless innings, and Ryan Pressly (2) turned in a perfect ninth to earn his second consecutive save.

Team USA’s offense showed up on Saturday night and pieced together 15 hits, a tournament high for the stars and stripes. All nine players in the starting lineup collected a hit in the win, including Tucker (3-for-5, HR, 2 RBI). Arenado (2-for-5), Goldschmidt (2-for-5, RBI), and Realmuto (2-for-3) also had multi-hit games for the United States. Turner (1-for-3, 4 RBI) and Tucker both had multiple-RBI games for the red, white, and blue, who had four extra-base hits.

Team USA is back in action on Sunday night against Cuba (3-2) in the World Baseball Classic semifinal round. The first pitch is set for 7:00 p.m. ET at loanDepot Park in Miami, Florida, and the game will be televised nationally on Fox Sports 1.

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
USA	0	0	1	0	2	0	0	0	0	3	7	0
Colombia	0	0	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	6	0

BOX SCORE - PLAYS - CUMULATIVE STATS

PHOENIX, Ariz. – Mike Trout hit the go-ahead single in the top of the fifth and the bullpen combined to toss six innings of scoreless relief as Team USA beat Colombia, 3-2, on Wednesday night at Chase Field. With the win, the U.S. advances to the World Baseball Classic quarterfinal round on Saturday night in Miami, Florida.

The U.S. has now advanced out of pool play in all five editions of the World Baseball Classic, joining Japan and Puerto Rico as the only nations to accomplish the feat.

Trailing by a run in the top of the fifth, the U.S. (3-1) used heads-up baserunning and clutch hitting to retake the lead. Will Smith drew a leadoff walk and advanced to second on a wild pitch before Mookie Betts singled and took second on the throw to put two in scoring position for Trout with one out. Just as he did on Monday night, Trout delivered, roping a two-run single to left to put Team USA in front 3-2. It was one of three hits for Trout on the night, who went 4-for-6 with six RBIs and two walks over the last two games.

The U.S. bullpen held Colombia (1-3) scoreless over the final six innings to secure the stars and stripes’ spot in the quarterfinals. Colombia mustered just two hits off Team USA’s relievers, who struck out nine batters. All seven relief pitchers recorded at least one strikeout, including Jason Adam, who struck out the side in the seventh. Ryan Pressly (1) entered in the ninth and worked around a two-out infield single to record the save.

Both sides exchanged zeroes over the first two innings on Wednesday. The U.S. threatened immediately in the top of the first when Trout hit a one-out triple and Paul Goldschmidt walked, but Colombia starter Luis De Avila induced an inning-ending double play to get out of the jam.

Team USA starter Merrill Kelly tossed a perfect opening frame before escaping trouble in the second. A single and two walks loaded the bases with one out for Colombia, but Kelly got the next two batters to pop out and ground out to get out of the inning unscathed.

The U.S. cracked the scoreboard in the top of the third, picking up back-to-back hits with two outs. Betts started the rally, working a six-pitch at-bat before singling to right field and advancing to second on a wild pitch. Trout then continued his tear by finding an open space in the shift for a single to plate Betts and give the U.S. a 1-0 lead.

Colombia responded with a pair of runs in the bottom of the third, and both teams went down quietly in the fourth inning before Trout’s two-run knock put the red, white, and blue in front by a run in the fifth. Trout’s single gave him three RBIs for the second consecutive game, making him the first U.S. player to drive in three or more runs in back-to-back World Baseball Classic games.

The top of the order paced the U.S. offense on Wednesday. Betts (2-for-4, 2 R) and Trout (3-for-4, 3 RBIs) set the tone for the stars and stripes, accounting for more than half of the team’s hits. Nolan Arenado (1-for-4) and Trea Turner (1-for-3) were the only other players to register a hit for Team USA.

Kelly got the start for the United States, tossing three innings and allowing a pair of runs. The bullpen was nearly perfect over the final six frames, combining for nine strikeouts. Kendall Graveman (1-0) entered in the fourth and pitched a scoreless inning to earn the win. Adam struck out the side in the seventh, while Devin Williams punched out a pair in his perfect eighth. Daniel Bard and David Bednar also turned in scoreless frames in relief before Pressly entered in the ninth to seal the victory.

Team USA will take on Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic quarterfinal round on Saturday at loanDepot Park in Miami, Florida. The game will be nationally televised on FOX, with first pitch set for 7:00 p.m. ET.

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
Canada	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	5	0
USA	9	3	0	0	0	0	0	12	9	0

BOX SCORE - PLAYS - CUMULATIVE STATS

PHOENIX, Ariz. – Capped by a three-run homer from Mike Trout, Team USA put up a tournament-record-tying nine runs in the bottom of the first inning and never looked back en route to a 12-1 run-rule victory over Canada in seven innings on Monday night at Chase Field. The U.S. now sits atop the Pool C standings with a 2-1 record.

The United States is now one win away from clinching its spot in the World Baseball Classic quarterfinal round.

The nine-run first was the most runs the U.S. has ever scored in a single inning at the World Baseball Classic and tied the tournament’s overall record. The stars and stripes got to work immediately as Mookie Betts led off with a base hit, and the U.S. quickly loaded the bases thanks to a pair of walks. Nolan Arenado then ripped his team-leading third double to left field to drive in a pair and open the scoring. Kyle Tucker followed with a sacrifice fly to plate Paul Goldschmidt, and J.T. Realmuto hit an RBI-single up the middle to increase the lead to four.

After Trea Turner drove in the fifth run of the inning on an RBI-fielder’s choice, Cedric Mullins brought him home by smacking the first pitch he saw for an RBI-triple to the wall in right field. Then, Trout put the finishing touches on the record-tying frame with a three-run blast to left-center, giving the stars and stripes a 9-0 lead. In total, the U.S. sent 12 batters to the plate in the bottom of the first, with both Betts and Trout reaching base twice in the inning.

Canada cracked the scoreboard with a run in the top of the second before Team USA’s bats got back to work in the home half of the inning. After a leadoff walk to Arenado, Tim Anderson split the gap in right-center field for an RBI-triple, the second three-bagger of the night for the United States. Anderson quickly came around to score on a sacrifice fly by Realmuto, andTurner followed with a mammoth shot to left field to extend the stars and stripes’ lead to 12-1. Turner’s 409-foot blast was the fourth of the tournament for Team USA, giving them the most home runs in Pool C.

While the U.S. offense dominated, the pitching followed suit. Starting pitcher Lance Lynn (1-0) set the tone for the red, white, and blue, turning in five innings of two-hit baseball, allowing just one run. Lynn punched out six and did not walk a batter in the win. Miles Mikolas entered in relief and delivered a similarly strong performance on the mound, pitching two scoreless innings with two strikeouts to lock down the win.

Arenado (1-for-3, 2 RBIs), Realmuto (2-for-2, 2 RBIs), Trout (1-for-2, 3 RBIs), and Turner (1-for-4, 2 RBIs) all drove in multiple runs in the victory. Eight of the nine batters in the starting lineup registered at least one hit for the U.S., which collected six extra-base hits. Anderson (2-for-3, RBI) and Mullins (1-for-3, RBI) both had a triple to give Team USA a tournament-leading three. Additionally, six different U.S. players scored multiple runs on Monday night.

Team USA returns to action Wednesday night for its pool play finale against Colombia (1-1). The game will be televised nationally on Fox Sports 1, with first pitch set for 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. MT. The U.S. would clinch its spot in the quarterfinal round with a win.

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Mexico	2	0	1	4	0	0	0	4	0	11	15	0
USA	0	1	0	0	0	0	1	3	0	5	8	0

BOX SCORE - PLAYS - CUMULATIVE STATS

PHOENIX, Ariz. – Trailing 11-2 heading in the bottom of the eighth inning, Team USA attempted to rally but ultimately fell short in an 11-5 loss to Mexico in front of a lively sold-out crowd on Sunday night at Chase Field. The U.S. fell to 1-1 in Pool C with the loss and currently sits in a three-way tie for second place with Canada and Mexico.

Mexico took a quick 2-0 lead in the first inning courtesy of a two-run homer. The stars and stripes responded in the bottom of the second thanks to a one-out triple from Kyle Tucker and an RBI-single by Tim Anderson, but Mexico would get that run back in the top of the third with a pair of infield singles and a blooper to right.

Mexico tacked on another four runs with two outs in the top of the fourth inning against reliever Brady Singer to take a commanding 7-1 lead. Will Smith hit a solo homer in the bottom of the seventh to cut into the deficit, but Mexico added four more runs in the top half of the eighth to extend its lead to 11-2.

The red, white, and blue attempted to rally in the bottom of the eighth, sending eight batters to the plate and scoring three runs. Bobby Witt Jr. drove in the first run of the inning with a pinch-hit RBI-double to right-center before Anderson picked up his second run-scoring hit of the night, smacking a two-run double down the left field line to plate two more runs to bring the score to 11-5. Jeff McNeil led off the bottom of the ninth with a single to left field but that would be all the stars and stripes could muster in the final frame.

Starting pitcher Nick Martinez (0-1) suffered the loss after allowing three earned runs in 2.2 innings. Aaron Loup, Adam Ottavino, and Ryan Pressly all turned in scoreless innings of relief for the U.S., which used eight total pitchers in the defeat. Singer and Bard both surrendered four runs in their relief appearances.

Anderson paced the U.S. offense on the night, going 2-for-4 with three RBIs, while Mike Trout (1-for-2) reached base three times, singling and drawing a pair of walks. Half of the U.S. hits were for extra bases on Sunday, with doubles from Anderson and Witt Jr. (1-for-1, RBI), a triple from Tucker (1-for-3), and Smith’s (1-for-4, RBI) home run.

Team USA continues pool play against Canada (1-0) on Monday night at Chase Field. The game will be televised nationally on Fox Sports 1, with first pitch set for 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. MT.

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Great Britain	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	2	8	2
USA	0	0	2	3	0	1	0	0	X	6	9	0

BOX SCORE – PLAYS – CUMULATIVE STATS

PHOENIX, Ariz. – Nolan Arenado had three hits and Kyle Schwarber delivered a clutch three-run homer to lift Team USA to a 6-2 win over Great Britain in the first game of its World Baseball Classic title defense on Saturday night at Chase Field.

The win is the first of manager Mark DeRosa’s coaching career and puts the U.S. atop the Pool C standings alongside Colombia at 1-0.

Despite the final score, Great Britain put early pressure on Team USA early after getting the scoring started on Saturday. With one out in the top of the first, Trayce Thompson hit a solo home run to give the British a 1-0 lead. Great Britain continued to put runners on base in the following two frames, but U.S. starter Adam Wainwright was able to dance around trouble in the second and third to keep Team USA within a run.

As Wainwright kept the British offense in check, the U.S. offense put runners on base in both the first and second innings but couldn’t capitalize. AnArenado single sandwiched between a pair of walks loaded the bases with two outs for Team USA in the opening frame, but Great Britain starter Vance Worley induced an inning-ending groundout to escape the threat. J.T. Realmuto then doubled in the second and reached third base on a groundout, but Worley got Mookie Betts to pop out to keep the British in front by a run heading into the third.

The stars and stripes got back to work in the third inning, and Worley could not keep them off the scoreboard this time. After Paul Goldschmidt reached on an error with one out in the frame, fellow St. Louis Cardinals teammate Arenado drove him home with an RBI-double down the left-field line. Then, with two outs and runners on the corners, Kyle Tucker lined an RBI-single up the middle to plate Arenado and give Team USA a 2-1 advantage.

The U.S. offense kept its foot on the gas in the bottom of the inning, putting a pair on via a walk and hit-by-pitch and bringing Schwarber to the plate. Then, he delivered the biggest swing of the night, belting a three-run homer over the right-field wall to put Team USA in front, 5-1. Schwarber’s blast was the first homer for Team USA in a World Baseball Classic opening game since 2009, when Adam Dunn, Brian McCann, and Kevin Youkilis all went yard against Canada.

The U.S. pitchers continued to post zeroes on defense, and the bats stayed hot in the bottom of the sixth, and, again, it was Arenado and Goldschmidt in the middle of the action. Goldschmidt snuck a leadoff single through the left side and came around to score just two pitches later when Arenado roped another double down the left-field line to put the stars and stripes up 6-1.

Wainwright (1-0) earned the win after pitching four innings of one-run ball, finishing with four strikeouts. He turned it over to the bullpen in the fifth, and the relievers combined to pitch five innings, giving up a single run in the top of the seventh. Jason Adam was the first pitcher out of the U.S. pen, tossing a perfect fifth before Kyle Freeland took over in the sixth. The southpaw punched out three batters in his three innings of work, giving up a run on an RBI-groundout in the seventh.

David Bednar entered in the ninth and was dominant, working around an infield single and striking out three to secure the opening game victory.

The U.S. offense tallied nine hits in the win, with seven different players picking up at least one knock. Arenado (3-for-5, 2 RBIs) finished the night with three hits, becoming the first U.S. player with three hits in a World Baseball Classic game since Ben Zobrist did it against Canada in 2013. Goldschmidt reached base four times, going 1-for-3 with a walk, a hit-by-pitch, and reaching on an error.

Nick Martinez will take the mound for Team USA (1-0) on Sunday against Mexico as it looks to improve to 2-0 in Pool C. First pitch is set for 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m MT at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. The game will be televised nationally on Fox Sports 1.