American Players Embrace Opponents' Flair Ahead of WBC Final

U.S. team captain Aaron Judge's controlled composure has set the tone for the clubhouse, but players appreciate the theatrics of Latin stars like Juan Soto and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:30am

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As the U.S. national baseball team prepares for the World Baseball Classic final, the players have been criticized for their cool, controlled approach compared to the flamboyant style of their Latin American opponents. However, the American players say they appreciate the flair of stars like Juan Soto and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., even if it's not their own personal style. U.S. captain Aaron Judge's leadership has set the tone for the team, with players looking up to his calm, professional demeanor.

Why it matters

The contrast in styles between the U.S. team and their Latin American opponents has become a talking point leading up to the WBC final. While the Americans have been faulted for their occasionally staid approach, the team has embraced military ties and honored those who protect American freedoms. The game showcases the diversity of baseball talent and playing styles across the globe.

The details

U.S. outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong said the team has fun in its own way, but appreciates the theatrics of Latin stars like Soto and Guerrero. Manager Mark DeRosa said team captain Aaron Judge turned down an offer to wear a 'C' on his uniform, describing him as the 'leader of men' who makes classy decisions. The U.S. team has also invited a former Navy SEAL who claimed to have killed Osama bin Laden to speak to the players in the clubhouse.

  • The U.S. team will face Venezuela or Italy in the WBC final on Tuesday night.
  • The U.S. lost to Japan 3-2 in the 2023 WBC final.

The players

Aaron Judge

The captain of the U.S. national baseball team, known for his controlled composure and leadership that has set the tone for the clubhouse.

Juan Soto

A Latin American baseball star known for his flamboyant playing style and theatrics on the field.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Another Latin American baseball star recognized for his energetic and expressive playing style.

Pete Crow-Armstrong

An outfielder for the U.S. national baseball team who appreciates the flair of Latin American players, even if it's not his own personal style.

Mark DeRosa

The manager of the U.S. national baseball team, who has embraced the team's military ties and honored those who protect American freedoms.

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What they’re saying

“You guys would all think it's silly if we shuffled like Soto or did Vladdy's little wiggle. That's them and if I had enough swag to do that I would probably do that, too. We have fun in our own way, but we definitely have fun out there.”

— Pete Crow-Armstrong, U.S. Outfielder

“Leader of men. Classy in every decision he makes. A lot of decisions that I've made throughout the course of the WBC I have made with his recommendations.”

— Mark DeRosa, U.S. Manager

“I want to do this for every serviceman and woman who protects our freedom, and that's why we wear USA across our chest.”

— Paul Skenes, U.S. Pitcher

What’s next

The U.S. team will face the winner of the semifinal matchup between Venezuela and Italy in the World Baseball Classic championship game on Tuesday night.

The takeaway

The contrast in playing styles between the U.S. team and their Latin American opponents has become a central narrative leading up to the WBC final. While the Americans have been criticized for their more reserved approach, the team has embraced its military ties and honored those who protect American freedoms, showcasing the diversity of talent and passion across the global game of baseball.