In the lead-up to the World Baseball Classic, there was a sense of trepidation from some clubs about releasing their top players for the competition. After all, the tournament falls right in the heart of spring training when players aren’t always physically ready for a high-level, playoff-style baseball.
Injuries were the main concern, and on Wednesday, the New York Mets received terrible news after star closer Edwin Diaz suffered a knee injury during a celebration. On Thursday, an MRI confirmed that Diaz tore his patellar tendon, requiring season-ending surgery.
The awful injury news sparked a chorus of criticism for the World Baseball Classic. But you weren’t going to hear any regret from Team USA’s two biggest stars.
Team USA says WBC is worth it despite injury criticism
Trout: “This is the funnest experience I’ve had… You’re still playing baseball in Spring Training.”
Betts: “Way better than getting 4 ABs on the back field. I encourage those watching to come play” pic.twitter.com/84QcEr5YJQ
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) March 16, 2023
After Team USA’s 3-2 win against Colombia, Mookie Betts and Mike Trout were asked about Diaz’s injury and their thoughts on playing in the WBC given injury risks.
Both Trout and Betts defended the WBC with Trout, in particular, saying it was the most fun he’s had playing baseball. They made the point that players are still playing baseball during spring training where injuries can also happen.
And of course, there will always be the risk when it comes to the World Baseball Classic, which is partly why the USA pitching staff is lacking the star power of its position players. But to hear Betts and Trout defend the decision to participate — it holds plenty of weight.
Fans also had thoughts on the comments from Team USA’s stars.