"That is always part of what makes the WBC so special each year is that guys who are fringe major leaguers can play for their countries and get a chance to be one of the focal points and stars of the team. Last night was no different, as the biggest moment in the game happened when a former phenom and a guy who hasn't appeared in the majors since 2023 faced off in a big spot."
"Machado has not appeared in the majors after spending 3 seasons with the Nationals from 2021-2023, and he had actually showed some promise before his tenure came to an end. Harper is a player who needs no introduction, and he ended up getting the best of Machado."
"Harper destroyed a 1-0 changeup to dead center field with 2 outs in the bottom of the 8th inning, as a stunned Machado smiled through the pai"
The Washington Nationals had limited involvement in this year's World Baseball Classic compared to previous years. Only two Nationals players participated: catcher Harry Ford and infielder Matt Mervis, neither expected to make the Opening Day roster. Outfielder James Wood was passed over for the tournament roster after an injury to Corbin Carroll. Despite minimal direct Nationals participation, several former organization players competed throughout the tournament. A notable moment occurred in the WBC final's bottom of the 8th inning when two former Nationals faced off: Bryce Harper representing Team USA and Venezuelan reliever Andres Machado, who played for Washington from 2021-2023. Harper delivered a crucial hit against Machado in this high-pressure situation.
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