Royals' Pasquantino Turns Down Hall of Fame Bat Request After Historic WBC Performance

The first-ever three-homer game in WBC history was just the start for the rising Royals star.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 1:54pm

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Kansas City Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino made World Baseball Classic history on Wednesday, becoming the first player to hit three home runs in a single WBC game. Despite the Hall of Fame's request to enshrine his bat, Pasquantino declined, saying he needs it for a few more days as Team Italy continues its run in the tournament.

Why it matters

Pasquantino's historic performance has cemented his status as one of the rising young stars in Major League Baseball. His power display for Team Italy has also brought increased attention to the WBC and the growing global popularity of the sport.

The details

In a 9-1 victory over Team Mexico, the 25-year-old Pasquantino hit three home runs, marking the first time a player has accomplished that feat in WBC history. Pasquantino admitted it was the first time he's ever hit three homers in a single game at any level. After the game, Pasquantino received a request from the Baseball Hall of Fame to enshrine the bat he used, but he declined, saying he needs it for a few more days as Team Italy continues its WBC run.

  • On March 12, 2026, Pasquantino hit three home runs in Team Italy's 9-1 victory over Team Mexico in the World Baseball Classic.
  • After the game, the Baseball Hall of Fame requested Pasquantino's bat to enshrine it.

The players

Vinnie Pasquantino

A 25-year-old first baseman for the Kansas City Royals who is currently playing for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic.

Reggie Jackson

A Hall of Fame baseball player who is considered one of the greatest power hitters in MLB history.

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What they’re saying

“It's just a good night. That's it. This will be forgotten very soon. But you know, anytime you can just say Reggie Jackson's name to me is cool.”

— Vinnie Pasquantino, Team Italy/Kansas City Royals Player (USA Today)

What’s next

With Team Italy's 4-0 record in Pool Play, they have advanced to the quarterfinals of the World Baseball Classic. Pasquantino and his teammates will look to continue their historic run and potentially win the WBC championship.

The takeaway

Vinnie Pasquantino's historic three-homer game in the World Baseball Classic has cemented his status as one of the rising young stars in Major League Baseball. His power display and Team Italy's success in the tournament have brought increased attention to the global growth and popularity of the sport.