That's why we wear USA': US players embrace military ties before WBC final against Venezuela

"You never want it to get lost why you're doing this, whatever that why is, USA manager Mark DeRosa said. And a lot of people like Paul Skenes said to me when he signed up for this, I want to do this for every serviceman and woman who protects our freedom,' and that's why we wear USA across our chest."

"You know, this is what we do in America, he said. We fight and we win. And that's our responsibility. The Americans' approach has been contrasted with the light-hearted spirit of teams such as Italy and the Dominican Republic and Venezuela. The Italians have taken a shot of espresso and kissed each other on the cheeks after home runs."

The US baseball team competing in the World Baseball Classic has adopted a distinctly patriotic and military-focused approach to the tournament. Players have saluted each other after victories and invited former Navy Seal Robert J O'Neill to address the team, despite controversy surrounding his past statements. Two Air Force Academy-trained pitchers, Paul Skenes and Griffin Jax, have emphasized the importance of honoring military service. Manager Mark DeRosa stated the team wears USA across their chest to honor servicemen and women. This serious, military-centered approach contrasts notably with other competing nations like Italy, Dominican Republic, and Venezuela, which emphasize celebratory, lighthearted, and exuberant displays of sportsmanship and fan engagement.

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