Team Italy standouts Kyle Teel, Sam Antonacci inspire hope for White Sox

The big hits by Teel and Antonacci against Team USA were further proof that the White Sox could be heading in the right direction.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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In a surprising upset, Team Italy defeated Team USA 8-6 in the World Baseball Classic, with two young Chicago White Sox prospects, Kyle Teel and Sam Antonacci, leading the charge for Italy. Teel and Antonacci each hit home runs off USA pitcher Nolan McLean in the second inning, driving in all three of Italy's runs. The victory has White Sox fans and management excited about the future, as these two players show promise for the rebuilding franchise.

Why it matters

The performance of Teel and Antonacci against the star-studded Team USA roster is seen as a positive sign for the White Sox, who are looking to bounce back after several disappointing seasons. The team's farm system is starting to produce talented young players, and this international success could be an indicator that the franchise is heading in the right direction.

The details

In the second inning, Teel and Antonacci each hit two-run home runs off USA pitcher Nolan McLean to give Italy a lead they would not relinquish. Teel later doubled and scored on a homer by Jac Caglianone. Antonacci also impressed broadcasters with his baseball IQ. Unfortunately, Teel left the game with a hamstring injury, but the White Sox do not believe it will be a long-term issue.

  • On Tuesday night, March 11, 2026, Team Italy defeated Team USA 8-6 in the World Baseball Classic.
  • In the second inning, Teel and Antonacci hit their two-run home runs off Nolan McLean.
  • In the fourth inning, Teel walked and scored on Caglianone's homer.
  • Teel left the game in the sixth inning with a hamstring injury.

The players

Kyle Teel

A young catcher in the Chicago White Sox farm system who hit a two-run homer and later walked and scored in Italy's upset victory over Team USA.

Sam Antonacci

A utility player in the White Sox farm system who also hit a two-run homer off Nolan McLean to help lead Italy to victory over the United States.

Nolan McLean

The starting pitcher for Team USA who gave up the two-run homers to Teel and Antonacci in the second inning.

Chris Getz

The general manager of the Chicago White Sox, who was excited to see Teel and Antonacci perform well for Team Italy.

Will Venable

The manager of the Chicago White Sox.

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What they’re saying

“Once Teel and Antonacci hit their homers, I wanted them to get the attention they deserve, and the best way to do that was with an Italy win.”

— Chris Getz, General Manager, Chicago White Sox (Text message)

“Spiking adrenaline in mid-March is counterintuitive to what we know is best for player health. You just hope careers aren't dramatically altered in this, and in Teel's case, he'll be fine, yet in reality, if he were in spring training, he would've been out of the game after his homer and walk.”

— Chris Getz, General Manager, Chicago White Sox (Text message)

“I've been getting messages the last week from the Italy staff about how much they love Teel and Antonacci because of how fearless they are.”

— Chris Getz, General Manager, Chicago White Sox (Text message)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.