The World Baseball Classic has started, and we have seen some really thrilling games to this point.
Italy-Cuba and Italy-Chinese Taipei were instant classics, and Japan has looked downright dominant in the early going.
Some of the best teams in the tournament are yet to play, though.
The United States, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and Mexico will all make their debuts over the weekend.
Speaking of Venezuela, they will face the incredibly tough Dominican Republic on Saturday and then Puerto Rico on Sunday.
One of Venezuela’s biggest stars is Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve.
The 2017 American League MVP talked to the media and offered his impressions about playing for his home country.
He said it’s an “honor” and a “great opportunity” for him and his career.
José Altuve on playing for Venezuela in the #WorldBaseballClassic pic.twitter.com/BRgtS5MwLi
— Marly Rivera (@MarlyRiveraESPN) March 10, 2023
It’s not everyday that these players get the chance to represent their nations.
Altuve is getting it, and he is planning to capitalize on it.
Venezuela hasn’t won its first WBC, and the Astros star and multiple World Series champ would love to help put some hardware in their trophy cabinet.
Altuve also said the chemistry in the clubhouse is amazing, which certainly helps everybody feels more loose and relaxed so they can perform better.
Venezuela shares Pool D with the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Nicaragua, and Israel.
The top two squads in the group stage will advance to the next round, the quarterfinals.
Three of baseball’s traditionally great countries, that being one of Dominican Republic, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico will be eliminated in the first round.
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