"The WBC, on the other hand, showcases an ebullient version of the game as experienced elsewhere in the world. You've got 30-year-old electricians getting outs with fastballs slower than high school JV players, and high school players with electric fastballs that shatter Aaron Judge's bat."
"Cactus League action has taken a backseat to the WBC, and for good reason. Even a packed house at Sloan Park doesn't have a fraction of the energy on display at one of these pool games across the globe, though I suppose it's possible one of the many games we haven't been able to see or hear has been bedlam."
Spring training games at venues like Sloan Park lack the energy and excitement of World Baseball Classic pool games occurring globally. The WBC demonstrates baseball as played internationally, featuring players with varying skill levels—from 30-year-old electricians throwing slower fastballs to high school prospects with elite velocity. While spring training's subdued atmosphere has its appeal, the WBC offers a more ebullient version of the sport. The Cubs face the A's with a full lineup including Dansby Swanson, Ian Happ, and Michael Busch. Cubs pitcher Shōta Imanaga seeks consistency after mixed early results. Oakland counters with 25-year-old Mason Barnett, a 2022 Royals draft pick acquired in 2024, who has shown inconsistent command in limited MLB appearances.
Read at Cubsinsider
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