<p>With <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/paul-goldschmidt">Paul Goldschmidt</a> on the roster, <strong>Team USA</strong> fell once again in the <strong>World Baseball Classic</strong>. This time, it was against <strong>Venezuela </strong>instead of Japan, but the loss stings all the same. With the defeat now official, Goldschmidt and four other players will go down in history as part of the runner-up rosters in 2023 and 2026.</p>



<p><strong>David Bednar, Paul Goldschmidt, Kyle Schwarber, Will Smith, and Bobby Witt Jr</strong>. are the five players on the 2026 roster who were also part of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a>‘s squad in 2023. After the Stars and Stripes fell at loanDepot park once again, those five players relived the heartbreak from 2023. </p>



<p>Once again, the Americans suffered a crushing defeat in Little Havana. Three years ago, it was Japan that walked away victorious. Now, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/venezuela">Venezuela</a> has captured its first <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a> title, while Team USA matched Puerto Rico’s total of two runner-up finishes. <strong>The Americans now hold a 1–2 record in World Baseball Classic finals.</strong></p>



<h2>When is next World Baseball Classic?</h2>



<p>Team USA will have its shot at redemption in 2030, as that’s when the next World Baseball Classic will be. Four years from now, Venezuela will have to defend its world champions crown. For the time being, though, the <strong>Venezuelans get to celebrate a historic conquest in Miami.</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/15083612/aaron-judge-with-united-states-1920x1080.webp" alt="Aaron Judge of Team United States" class="wp-image-598415"><figcaption>Aaron Judge of Team United States</figcaption></figure>



<p>However, Venezuela and Team USA may run into each other again before 2030. In 2028, <strong>baseball will return to the Summer Olympics</strong> for the first time since 2020. Thus, both Venezuela and the U.S. could be in for a case of déjà vu, as they compete in a tournament where Japan enters as the reigning champion on American soil.</p>


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<h3>Updated World Baseball Classic winners</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-regular"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>YEAR</strong></td><td><strong>CHAMPION</strong></td><td><strong>RUNNER-UP</strong></td></tr><tr><td>2006</td><td>JAPAN</td><td>CUBA</td></tr><tr><td>2009</td><td>JAPAN (2)</td><td>SOUTH KOREA</td></tr><tr><td>2013</td><td>DOMINICAN REPUBLIC</td><td>PUERTO RICO</td></tr><tr><td>2017</td><td>TEAM USA</td><td>PUERTO RICO</td></tr><tr><td>2023</td><td>JAPAN (3)</td><td>TEAM USA</td></tr><tr><td>2026</td><td>VENEZUELA</td><td>TEAM USA</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>


Paul Goldschmidt, Team USA fall to Venezuela in WBC: Who else lost finals in 2023 and 2026?

Paul Goldschmidt, Team USA fall to Venezuela in WBC: Who else lost finals in 2023 and 2026? - Bolavip US

Team USA players who lost WBC final in 2023 and 2026

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<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a> and <strong>Venezuela </strong>will go head-to-head in the <strong>biggest game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic</strong>. The Americans arrive at the final after knocking Canada and the Dominican Republic out of the competition in the elimination round. As for Venezuela, “The Land of Grace” reached the decisive stage after taking out reigning champions Japan and Cinderella-run Italy.</p>



<p>Now, the stage is set for an instant classic. Team USA—<strong>making its third straight appearance in the WBC final</strong>—is considered the favorite thanks to its home-field advantage and a star-studded roster. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/venezuela">Venezuela</a> won’t be alone, with thousands of fans expected to fill the stands at loanDepot park.</p>



<p>Both teams are 4-1 so far in the 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a>, meaning each side knows what it feels like to be on the losing end in the tournament. However, neither is expecting to lose in the final. This one is for all the marbles, and both sides <strong>plan to walk out of Little Havana crowned world champions</strong>.</p>



<h2>What happens if Team USA loses against Venezuela?</h2>



<p>If Team USA loses against Venezuela, then the Americans will have to settle for the silver medal in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Moreover, <strong>it’d be the second straight runner-up finish</strong> for the Stars and Stripes. Team USA lost to Japan in the 2023 WBC final, and is now eyeing redemption.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/17080649/Nolan-McLean-3-1920x1080.webp" alt="Nolan McLean" class="wp-image-599463"><figcaption>Nolan McLean will be Team USA’s starting pitcher.</figcaption></figure>



<p>With a win over Team USA, Venezuela would secure its first World Baseball Classic championship. Regardless of the final score, Venezuela will record its best finish in WBC history, as its <strong>previous best was a third-place in 2009</strong>.</p>


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<h2>What happens if Team USA wins in 2026 WBC final?</h2>



<p>If the Americans prevail over the Venezuelans, <strong>then the Stars and Stripes will be crowned champions</strong> of the 2026 World Baseball Classic. It’d be the country’s second WBC championship and first since 2017. Team USA will have to slay its ghosts from the past, though, as it lost to Japan in 2023 at the same ballpark it will take on Venezuela.</p>



<h2>What happens if Team USA and Venezuela tie?</h2>



<p>If both sides are still tied by the end of the ninth inning, then <strong>the 2026 World Baseball Classic final will head to extra innings</strong>. According to official WBC rules, the team at bat in extra innings will <strong>start with a runner on second base</strong>. Extra innings will continue until a winner is decided.</p>


What happens if Team USA loses, wins or ties against Venezuela in the 2026 WBC final?

What happens if Team USA loses, wins or ties against Venezuela in the 2026 WBC final? - Bolavip US

What happens if Team USA loses, wins or ties vs Venezuela in WBC final?

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a></strong> is now headed for its final chapter, pitting <strong>Team USA</strong> against <strong>Team Venezuela</strong> for the championship. Even though <strong>Nolan McLean</strong> is set to start for the Americans, <strong>Carlos Mendoza</strong> — manager of the <strong>New York Mets</strong> — didn’t hesitate to pick his native nation to win it all.</p>



<p><em>“<strong>I’m rooting for obviously Venezuela</strong>…but with Nolan pitching, I want him to get his pitch count where he needs to be, and then when he comes out of the game for Venezuela to put a rally on,”</em> the manager stated via <em>SNY</em>.</p>



<p>Mendoza is experiencing mixed emotions: one of his players will be <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/who-takes-the-mound-for-team-usa-in-the-2026-world-baseball-classic-final">the starting pitcher on the mound for Team USA</a>, which fills him with pride, yet he <strong>still picks his home country to lift the trophy for the first time in its history</strong>.</p>



<h2>Venezuela seek glory in WBC final</h2>



<p>Since its inception, <strong>Venezuela have never won the World Baseball Classic</strong>. Their deepest run prior to this year was a third-place finish in 2009, following a loss to South Korea in the semifinals. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/17134658/team-venezuela-1920x1080.webp" alt="Team Venezuela" class="wp-image-599757"><figcaption>Daniel Palencia #29 of Team Venezuela.</figcaption></figure>



<p>After years of falling short—including a heartbreaking quarterfinal exit in 2023—the team has finally broken through in the 2026 tournament. </p>



<p>By defeating the defending champions, Japan, in the quarterfinals and rallying past Italy in the semis, Venezuela have secured their first-ever appearance in a WBC Final.</p>



<h2>Mendoza awaits Nolan McLeans’ return</h2>



<p>Carlos Mendoza is eagerly awaiting the return of right-handed phenom Nolan McLean to <strong>finalize the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-mets">New York Mets</a>‘ rotation ahead of Opening Day.</strong> </p>



<p>After McLean’s late-season surge in 2025—where he posted a 2.06 ERA and a 1.04 WHIP over 48 innings—Mendoza sees him as a centerpiece of the 2026 staff.</p>



<p>Despite some early spring concerns regarding vertigo-like symptoms, McLean proved his health by taking the ball for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.</p>


NY Mets’ Carlos Mendoza picks Venezuela over USA in WBC final despite McLean’s presence

NY Mets' Carlos Mendoza picks Venezuela over USA in WBC final despite McLean’s presence - Bolavip US

Carlos Mendoza picks Venezuela over USA in WBC final

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/venezuela">Venezuela</a></strong> earned its first-ever trip to the <strong>World Baseball Classic </strong>final after a dramatic seventh-inning comeback against <strong>Italy</strong>, while <strong>Team USA </strong>advanced following a hard-fought win over the <strong>Dominican Republic</strong>. To open the championship game, <strong>Venezuela will turn to veteran left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez.</strong></p>



<p>After a <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/coin-flip-decides-home-team-for-team-usa-vs-venezuela-in-2026-world-baseball-classic-final">coin flip decided the home team for the Team USA vs. Venezuela matchup in the 2026 WBC final</a></strong>, attention now shifts to the pitching matchup that will set the tone for the championship.</p>



<p>Rodriguez brings a decade of MLB experience, with stops at the <strong>Boston Red Sox</strong>,<strong> Detroit Tigers</strong>, and the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arizona-diamondbacks">Arizona Diamondbacks</a></strong>, where he’s played since 2023. Last season, he posted a <strong>5.02 ERA over 29 games and 154.1 innings, striking out 143 batters</strong>. However, his lone start in this year’s WBC didn’t go as planned, allowing three runs in just 2.2 innings against the Dominican Republic during pool play.</p>



<h2>Team USA’s starting pitcher in the WBC Final</h2>



<p>For <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a>, rookie Nolan McLean will take the mound</strong>. While his season with the <strong>New York Mets</strong> has impressed, McLean faced challenges earlier in the tournament, giving up two home runs against Italy in the pool stages.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/17085814/MCLEAN-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-599481"><figcaption>Nolan McLean #26 of Team United States delivers a pitch against Team Italy. Alex Slitz/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<p><em><strong>“Obviously I got clipped there a couple times with the homer… but overall, I felt really good</strong>. As a competitor, if you work your whole life at something, you want to be put in these spots. It’s just kind of a dream come true to be able to get the ball in such a big moment, and it’s something I want to do,”</em> McLean said ahead of the final according to <em><a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/team-usa-pitching-plan-2026-classic-championship" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLB.com</a></em>.</p>


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<h2>Experience vs. youth shapes the matchup</h2>



<p><strong>Venezuela leans on Rodriguez’s experience to navigate pressure-filled innings</strong>, while Team USA trusts McLean’s competitiveness and potential to rise to the occasion. The contrasting approaches—veteran stability versus rookie energy—could ultimately determine who claims the 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a> title.</p>


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Who will take the mound for Team Venezuela vs Team USA in the 2026 WBC Final?

Michael Lorenzen’s brother fires back at critics of Italy pitcher after Venezuela game

Vinnie Pasquantino reveals what made Italy’s WBC run truly special

Who will take the mound for Team Venezuela vs Team USA in the 2026 WBC Final? - Bolavip US

Venezuela vs. USA: Who will Take the mound in the 2026 WBC Final?

<p><strong>Vinnie Pasquantino</strong> did not hold back after <strong>Italy</strong>’s final moment in the <strong>2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a></strong>. The team reached the semifinal undefeated, and despite the loss, he emphasized how important it was to see so many fans in Italy connect with the national team.</p>



<p><em>“Such a <strong>special group</strong>. Millions of people watched us from Italy over the past few days. That’s always been and always will be the goal, <strong>to keep growing the game</strong>. <strong>Thank you everyone for all the support. Forza Italia!</strong>”</em> Pasquantino wrote on X (@Vpasquantino).</p>



<p>Pasquantino was one of the players who gave everything during the tournament. He saved his best performance for the game against Mexico, a 9-1 win where<strong> he delivered three RBIs, three hits and three home runs.</strong> It was a performance that energized fans in Italy, even drawing attention from the country’s prime minister after the earlier victory over Team USA.</p>



<h2>Italy needs more homegrown players</h2>



<p>One of the biggest talking points during the WBC was Italy’s roster. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/venezuela-batting-order-vs-italy-for-the-2026-world-baseball-classic">It was filled with players born in the United States</a>. More than half of them were able to represent Italy because of family ties, <strong>something allowed under tournament rules</strong>. In fact, only three players on the roster were born in Italy.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Team Italy&apos;s TOP MOMENTS from World Baseball Classic Pool Play! 🇮🇹 (Ft. Pasquantino, Nola, more!)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LdubN0hgWMg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>Italy has found success with a mix of players, whether born in the country or not. The team has participated in every World Baseball Classic since 2006. <strong>Its best result so far is the fourth place finish in 2026</strong>. The country also won the European Championship in 2012, a tournament it has captured 10 times.</p>


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<p>Pasquantino and Italian baseball officials understand the sport continues to grow in Italy. The country has its<strong> own baseball league with 33 teams,</strong> which began play in 1948. Some players born in the United States have also competed there after not being drafted by an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb">MLB</a> team.</p>



<p>Italian federation president Marco Mazzieri told Jon Morosi, <em>“This is<strong> what you call a sports miracle</strong> . . . To come here, play an All-Star team full of champions and future Hall of Famers, and do what we did, the way we did,<strong> is really something special.</strong>”</em></p>


Vinnie Pasquantino reveals what made Italy’s WBC run truly special - Bolavip US

Pasquantino reveals what made Italy’s WBC run truly special

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-mets">New York Mets</a></strong> will continue their spring schedule against the <strong>Miami Marlins</strong>, but much of the organization’s attention will be on the <strong>World Baseball Classic final</strong>, where top prospect <strong>Nolan McLean</strong> is set to start for <strong>Team USA</strong>.</p>



<p><strong>Carlos Mendoza</strong> expressed confidence in McLean’s ability to handle the moment. <em>“<strong>He’s wired, he’s built for moments like that… the moment is never too big for him</strong>,”</em> he said, adding that the organization will be watching closely — and <em>“we’ll be praying.”</em></p>



<p><strong>McLean’s rapid rise has drawn attention</strong> both within the Mets organization and across the league, especially after a strong finish to last season following his<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb">MLB</a> </strong>call-up. However, the WBC final presents a completely different level of pressure, with global attention and elite competition awaiting him.</p>



<h2>Mendoza balances excitement and concern</h2>



<p>Mendoza acknowledged both the excitement and concern surrounding the moment.<strong> <em>“I have mixed feelings,”</em> </strong>Mendoza said, before the Mets faced the Washington Nationals. <em>“I’m not gonna lie.”</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/17080621/carlos-mendoza-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-599462"><figcaption>Carlos Mendoza #64 of the Mets uses the phone during spring training workouts. Rich Storry/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<p>Mendoza highlighted the intensity of representing a country in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">WBC</a>, noting that the environment goes beyond a typical MLB game. <em>“<strong>You’re representing your country and you’ve got the whole world watching you,</strong>”</em> he said, adding that the stage will be unlike anything McLean experienced during his rookie season.</p>


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<p>At the same time, the Mets remain cautious about potential injury risks, recalling past cases like <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edwin-diaz">Edwin Diaz</a></strong>, who missed the 2023 season after a WBC celebration injury. <em>“That’s on the back of the mind of people and organizations… You hold your breath,”</em> Mendoza admitted.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="69b944dcb228ada1a740646e" data-title="Do you think Nolan McLean should be starting the WBC final for Team USA?" data-options="3"></div>

        

        

NY Mets’ Carlos Mendoza weighs risk of Nolan McLean starting WBC Final for Team USA

How many players born in the United States are playing for Italy in the 2026 WBC?

To Mark DeRosa, Paul Skenes almost doesn’t seem human

NY Mets' Carlos Mendoza weighs risk of Nolan McLean starting WBC Final for Team USA - Bolavip US

Carlos Mendoza weighs risk of Nolan McLean starting WBC Final

<p><strong>Michael Lorenzen </strong>entered the semifinal game against <strong>Venezuela </strong>in the <strong>2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a> </strong>with the goal of keeping runs off the board. But things quickly got out of control. Italy allowed three runs while he was on the mound, and his brother Anthony Lorenzen took to X to respond to the critics.</p>



<p><em>“Man sometimes<strong> it’s hard to keep your mouth shut</strong> as a family member of an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb">MLB</a> player… <strong>especially from people who clearly don’t know baseball</strong> and like to run their mouths behind a screen and who have never accomplished anything on a major stage in their own lives…,” </em>Anthony wrote on X (@ALorenzen1227).</p>



<p>Before the semifinal, Michael had delivered <strong>a strong outing against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a> in pool play</strong>. Italy won that game 8-6, and he threw 4.2 innings without allowing a single run. There was even an expectation he could start against Venezuela, but manager Francisco Cervelli ultimately went with Aaron Nola instead.</p>



<h2>What would have happened with Lorenzen if Italy had won?</h2>



<p>That was part of the criticism. Many questioned why Michael Lorenzen was used as a reliever, since that decision would<strong> have taken away his chance to start the final if Italy had advanced</strong>. Had they won, Italy would likely have been <strong>forced into a bullpen game against Team USA</strong>, which will be the home team in the championship.</p>



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">this Venezuela lineup has too much firepower to keep quiet, they had to breakthrough eventually<br><br>finally get to michael lorenzen for 3 runs in the 7th<br>Chourio – Acuna – Garcia – Arraez b2b2b2b<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/worldbaseballclassic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#worldbaseballclassic</a> <a href="https://t.co/y1SpPPgpTB">pic.twitter.com/y1SpPPgpTB</a></p>— Kevin Thang (@Skip2MyJays) <a href="https://twitter.com/Skip2MyJays/status/2033729588501545085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<p>Anthony did not stop at calling out the critics. He also showed respect to the opponent.<em> “Keep your head up Team Italy!<strong> You guys played exciting baseball and had an amazing run!</strong> Baseball will baseball.<strong> Congrats to Team Venezuela! </strong>Team USA owes Team Italy a win now,”</em> he wrote.</p>


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<p>Despite the tough result<strong> </strong>in the semifinal,<strong> Italy’s overall performance was impressive</strong>. It was the deepest run in the country’s history at the World Baseball Classic, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/how-many-players-born-in-the-united-states-are-playing-for-italy-in-the-2026-wbc">and considering most of the roster was born in the United States</a>, reaching the semifinal undefeated stands as a major achievement, something even Team USA did not accomplish.</p>


Michael Lorenzen’s brother fires back at critics of Italy pitcher after Venezuela game - Bolavip US

<p>The final of the <strong>2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a></strong> is set to be a highly intense matchup, and the home team was decided in an unusual way. A coin flip determined that <strong>Team USA will be the home team</strong> for the championship game against <strong>Venezuela</strong>.</p>



<p>There is no clear timing or even video of the coin flip that gave Team USA home field, <strong>but Daniel Álvarez-Montes reported it on X </strong>(@DanielAlvarezEE). The news quickly spread across the baseball world, with outlets like Underdog MLB sharing it and reporters such as Anthony Castrovince also confirming it.</p>



<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a>, <strong>considered the heavy favorite</strong>, is familiar with MLB stadiums since every player on the roster comes from the majors. Still, the advantage of being the home team goes beyond just knowing the field, something Venezuelan players are also used to.</p>



<h2>The advantage of the home team</h2>



<p>One of the main advantages for the home team in the WBC<strong> is the walk-off potential.</strong> If the game is tied or the home team is trailing in the final inning, it gets the last chance to score. If it takes the lead, <strong>the game ends immediately,</strong> giving the opponent no chance to respond.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Welcome to the 2026 World Baseball Classic, Aaron Judge! 🇺🇸 (Two-run home run in 1st at-bat!)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4vM7BvwBU68?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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<p>As the home team, Team USA <strong>also has another edge over Venezuela </strong>in the final, advance information. The home team always knows exactly how many runs it needs <strong>to tie or win during its final at-bats</strong>. That allows Mark DeRosa and his staff to make more precise decisions, such as when to use a pinch runner or call for a sacrifice bunt.</p>


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<p>With Nolan McLean expected to start for Team USA, this also works in his favor. The home team takes the field first and starts the game on defense in the top of the first inning. While Venezuela gets the first chance to score, Team USA <strong>can set the tone with its starter</strong> and still have the final opportunity to respond in the bottom of the ninth.</p>


Coin flip decides home team for Team USA vs. Venezuela in 2026 World Baseball Classic final

Coin flip decides home team for Team USA vs. Venezuela in 2026 World Baseball Classic final - Bolavip US

2026 WBC: Coin flip decides home team for Team USA vs. Venezuela

<p><strong>Venezuela </strong>believes<strong> Ronald Acuña Jr. is the best option</strong> to strike early against <strong>Italy</strong>, just like he did against Japan. He enters this semifinal game of the <strong>2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a> </strong>with a .278 batting average and a 1.125 OPS, although he was struck out three times in the quarterfinal matchup.</p>



<p><strong>Maikel Garcia and Luis Arraez</strong> remain in the same spots in the batting order as they were against Japan. Garcia delivered a strong performance in that game with <strong>two hits, two RBIs and a home run in five at-bats.</strong> He now enters the semifinal with a .421 average. Arraez, on the other hand, is expected to bounce back after failing to produce against the Japanese team.</p>



<p>Eugenio Suárez, serving as DH, <strong>has not contributed much for Venezuela since the game against Israel</strong>, where he recorded two hits, two RBIs and a home run. In the quarterfinal, when Venezuela eliminated the defending champions, he went 0-for-4 and now holds a <strong>.167 batting average</strong>.</p>



<h2>Venezuela batting order vs. Italy</h2>



<p><strong>Ezequiel Tovar</strong> did a solid job against Japan and<strong> is one of the players expected to make an impact again for Venezuela</strong> in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. He enters the matchup against Italy with a <strong>.667 batting average</strong>, a dangerous number even though he has not recorded an RBI in the tournament.</p>



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="WOW WILYER! 🤯 Wilyer Abreu CLOBBERS a 3-run home run to give Team Venezuela the LEAD! 🇻🇪" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6EiCT2GYgj8?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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<ul><li>Ronald Acuña Jr. RF</li><li>Maikel Garcia 3B</li><li>Luis Arraez 1B</li><li>Eugenio Suárez DH</li><li>Ezequiel Tovar SS</li><li>Gleyber Torres 2B</li><li>Wilyer Abreu LF</li><li>William Contreras C</li><li>Jackson Chourio CF</li></ul>


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<p>Gleyber Torres delivered what was expected from him in the quarterfinals. He helped his team with one RBI and a couple of hits, <strong>entering the semifinal with a .182 batting average</strong>, a number that could still be seen as low. Behind him is Wilyer Abreu, who carries a .294 average and hit an important home run against Japan.</p>



<p><strong>Salvador Pérez will not be in the lineup</strong>. Instead, William Contreras takes his place, although<strong> he has not been able to contribute much</strong> to the national team so far in the 2026 WBC. At least Jackson Chourio, hitting last in the order, still brings some value with a .222 batting average.</p>


Venezuela batting order vs. Italy for the 2026 World Baseball Classic

Venezuela batting order vs. Italy for the 2026 World Baseball Classic - Bolavip US

2026 WBC: Venezuela batting order vs. Italy

<p><strong>Italy </strong>will open its batting order <strong>with Sam Antonacci</strong> against <strong>Venezuela</strong> in the semifinal game of the <strong>2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a></strong>. He enters with a weak .143 batting average after a rough performance against Puerto Rico in the quarterfinals, although that did not stop his team from securing the win.</p>



<p>Behind Antonacci comes <strong>Jon Berti, who was not available for Italy in the game against Puerto Rico</strong>. He enters the semifinal with a strong .417 batting average. The third spot in the order belongs to <strong>Jakob Marsee,</strong> who carries a .200 average and a .610 OPS after recording one hit in four at-bats in his most recent game.</p>



<p><strong>Vinnie Pasquantino</strong> will bat fourth in the order. He has been one of Italy’s most productive hitters in the tournament with<strong> three home runs, four RBIs and four hits</strong>. He enters the matchup against Venezuela with a .211 batting average and a 1.084 OPS after a tough game against Puerto Rico where he had only three at-bats.</p>



<h2>Italy batting order vs. Venezuela</h2>



<p>Italy hopes Pasquantino can bounce back and move past what happened in the quarterfinal game. The same expectation surrounds <strong>Zach Dezenzo, who rested in the previous game</strong> and should be fresh for this semifinal matchup. Against Mexico, he produced one run and one hit, and the team expects more from him while serving as DH.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="VINNIE PASQUANTINO AGAIN 🇮🇹 He hits his second homer of the game for Team Italy vs. Team Mexico!" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Tc6QFugMzyQ?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<ul><li>Sam Antonacci SS</li><li>Jon Berti 2B</li><li>Jakob Marsee CF</li><li>Vinnie Pasquantino 1B</li><li>Zach Dezenzo DH</li><li>Jac Caglianone RF</li><li>Andrew Fischer 3B</li><li>J.J. D’Orazio C</li><li>Dante Nori LF</li></ul>


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<p>Jac Caglianone could be one of the most dangerous hitters in the Italian lineup. He enters with <strong>a .364 batting average and a 1.290 OPS</strong>. Against Mexico and Puerto Rico he was highly productive despite having limited at-bats. The same can be said for Andrew Fischer, who carries a similar average and is expected to continue producing at the plate<strong> after delivering RBIs in every WBC game he has played so far</strong>.</p>



<p>J.J. D’Orazio may bat near the bottom of the order, but he could still be a difference maker for Italy. In the quarterfinal game he helped his national team with three RBIs and enters the semifinal with a .417 batting average. <strong>Dante Nori rounds out the lineup with a .438 average</strong>, although he struck out three times in the previous game.</p>


Italy batting order vs. Venezuela for the 2026 World Baseball Classic

Italy batting order vs. Venezuela for the 2026 World Baseball Classic - Bolavip US

2026 WBC: Italy batting order vs. Venezuela

<p><strong>Italy </strong>has delivered a strong performance during the <strong>2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a>.</strong> Being a European team, many people assume most of the players were born there. However, <strong>23 of them were actually born in the United States</strong>, and some of those names are well known across MLB.</p>



<p><strong>Aaron Nola</strong> is one of those 23 ‘Italian Americans’ playing for Italy in the tournament. He was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, <strong>but has direct family ties to the European country he represents in the WBC.</strong> Because of that connection, he is fully eligible to play for them.</p>



<p>Joe La Sorsa is another player who was also born in the United States, specifically in Mount Kisco, New York. He is a pitching option ready to help if Italy needs him, and he has done his job when called upon. He <strong>plays for the Pittsburgh Pirates</strong> and spent time with the Cincinnati Reds last season. <strong>He has been a professional in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb">MLB</a> since 2023</strong>.</p>



<h2>23 players born in the United States play for Italy</h2>



<p>Most of the 23 players born in the United States <strong>who represent Italy are pitchers.</strong> That has been part of the strategy that helped the team<strong> make a deep run </strong>in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Michael Lorenzen is one of those arms. He pitches for the Colorado Rockies and did not get a spot with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a>, so he took the opportunity to play in the tournament with another national team.</p>



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Team Italy&apos;s TOP MOMENTS from World Baseball Classic Pool Play! 🇮🇹 (Ft. Pasquantino, Nola, more!)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LdubN0hgWMg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-regular"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pitchers</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Dan Altavilla</td></tr><tr><td>Matt Festa</td></tr><tr><td>Gordon Graceffo</td></tr><tr><td>Alek Jacob</td></tr><tr><td>Joe Jacques</td></tr><tr><td>Joe La Sorsa</td></tr><tr><td>Michael Lorenzen</td></tr><tr><td>Adam Ottavino</td></tr><tr><td>Greg Weissert</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Infielders</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Sam Antonacci</td></tr><tr><td>Jon Berti</td></tr><tr><td>Zach Dezenzo</td></tr><tr><td>Andrew Fischer</td></tr><tr><td>Mickey Gasper</td></tr><tr><td>Vinnie Pasquantino</td></tr><tr><td>Thomas Saggese</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Outfielders</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Jac Caglianone</td></tr><tr><td>Dominic Canzone</td></tr><tr><td>Jakob Marsee</td></tr><tr><td>Nick Morabito</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption>Data from MLB.com 2026 WBC Italy roster</figcaption></figure>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/mlb/who-takes-the-mound-for-team-usa-in-the-2026-world-baseball-classic-final"></div>


<p>In Italy, the law <strong>of jure sanguinis, or “right of blood,” </strong>allows people with Italian ancestry to claim citizenship. Because they can obtain Italian documents through family ties, players like Nola, Lorenzen and others who have never lived in Italy are still able to play in the tournament while fully respecting the eligibility rules.</p>



<p>Even among the coaching staff there are figures with multiple national ties. Manager <strong>Francisco Cervelli was born in Venezuela,</strong> while Jorge Posada works as an assistant hitting coach. <strong>Posada is a well known legend from Puerto Rico </strong>who spent his entire MLB career with the New York Yankees.</p>


How many players born in the United States are playing for Italy in the 2026 WBC? - Bolavip US

<p>Venezuela delivered the biggest surprise of the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">2026 World Baseball Classic</a></strong> by eliminating <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/japan">Japan</a></strong> in the quarterfinals with an 8-5 victory. Now, the next challenge will be enormous facing Italy in the semifinals.</p>



<p>Team Italy has become the dark horse of the tournament after finishing pool play with a perfect 4–0 record following victories over <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a></strong>, Mexico, Great Britain, and Brazil. Then, in the quarterfinals, the Italians eliminated Puerto Rico with an 8-6 win.</p>



<p>Now, in the semifinals, Venezuela will send Keider Montero to the mound, while the Italian squad will try to keep the impressive run going with Aaron Nola as the starting pitcher.</p>



<h2>What happens if Team Venezuela loses today vs Italy in 2026 WBC?</h2>



<p>If Team Venezuela loses against Italy in the 2026 World Baseball Classic semifinals, elimination from the tournament will be confirmed. After an impressive run, there would be no second opportunity for the Venezuelan squad.</p>


        

        


<h2>What happens if Team Venezuela wins over Italy in WBC?</h2>



<p>If Team Venezuela defeats Italy in the 2026 World Baseball Classic semifinals, a spot in the tournament final will be secured. The opponent on Tuesday will be Team USA after an epic victory over the Dominican Republic.</p>


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What happens if Team Venezuela loses or wins today vs Italy in 2026 World Baseball Classic semifinal?

Paul Skenes will have pitch count limit set by Team USA vs Dominican Republic in World Baseball Classic semifinal

What happens if Team USA loses or wins today vs Dominican Republic in 2026 World Baseball Classic?

What happens if Team Venezuela loses or wins today vs Italy in 2026 World Baseball Classic semifinal? - Bolavip US

What happens if Team Venezuela loses or wins vs Italy in 2026 WBC?

<p><strong>Mark DeRosa</strong> didn’t hesitate to address the controversial called third strike that punctuated Team USA’s semifinal victory over the <strong>Dominican Republic</strong> in the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Baseball Classic</a></strong>, acknowledging the frustration while standing by his battery.</p>



<p><em><strong>“I can understand why the Dominicans are upset about it, but that ball had a lot of the plate </strong>and Will [Smith] does a hell of a job framing back there,<strong>“</strong></em> DeRosa told reporters postgame.</p>



<p>By praising Smith’s elite framing, <strong>DeRosa credited the veteran’s ability to “steal” strikes as a decisive factor</strong> in a game dominated by pitching.</p>



<p>While the strike-three call ignited a firestorm on social media, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/dominican-republics-geraldo-perdomo-rips-wbc-officiating-after-loss-to-team-usa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dominican infielder Geraldo Perdomo was far more blunt in his assessment of the officiating</a></strong>.</p>



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨🚨THIS IS ONE OF THE WORST CALLS IN BASEBALL HISTORY🚨🚨<br><br>THE UMP IN THE WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC JUST SCREWED OVER THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM.<br><br>This was clearly a ball — Way below the strike zone.<br><br>Oh my goodness. The DR got robbed.<br><br>😳😳😳<br> <a href="https://t.co/Tx1uSo2AZU">pic.twitter.com/Tx1uSo2AZU</a></p>— MLFootball (@MLFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLFootball/status/2033379291438719434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<h2>DeRosa applauds staff excellence following semifinal victory</h2>



<p>Beyond the final out, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/to-mark-derosa-paul-skenes-almost-doesnt-seem-human" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DeRosa was effusive in his praise for starter Paul Skenes</a></strong>, whose electric performance set the tone for the night.</p>


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<p>DeRosa also looked ahead to Nolan McLean, the New York Mets prospect tapped to start the WBC Championship game on Tuesday. <em><strong>“For me, it’s his desire to want the ball in that moment; you’ve got to have that internal drive to thrive on this stage,”</strong></em> DeRosa remarked regarding his confidence in the young right-hander.</p>



<h2>A story of redemption for the US skipper?</h2>



<p>After a viral gaffe during pool play <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mark-derosa-reveals-oversight-that-leaves-aaron-judge-team-usa-on-brink-of-elimination-in-the-wbc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">where DeRosa misread tiebreaker rules and prematurely celebrated a clincher</a></strong>, the manager has successfully guided his squad back to the title game.</p>



<p>Fans and analysts alike have noted how DeRosa has redeemed himself, moving past the early tournament complacency that nearly cost Team USA <strong>its chance at a championship defense.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="69b873cdb228ada1a7406464" data-title="Will Team USA win the World Baseball Classic?" data-options="2"></div>

Mark DeRosa ‘understands’ Dominican outcry following disputed strike call in WBC semis

Mark DeRosa 'understands' Dominican outcry following disputed strike call in WBC semis - Bolavip US

<p>For <strong>New York Mets</strong> manager <strong>Carlos Mendoza</strong>, knowing that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/who-takes-the-mound-for-team-usa-in-the-2026-world-baseball-classic-final">Nolan McLean will take the mound as a starter for Team USA</a> in the upcoming <strong>World Baseball Classic</strong> final is undoubtedly a source of pride.</p>



<p><em>“Mixed feelings, I’m not gonna lie. It’s awesome, it’s a great opportunity. <strong>The fact that he’s going to have that experience is something unbelievable</strong>. We’ll be praying,” </em>Mendoza said to the press.</p>



<p>With only a few days left until this important event concludes, the Mets facilities are already welcoming McLean with open arms, as <strong>he arrives highly motivated after a great tournament representing his country.</strong></p>



<h2>McLean arrives riding high</h2>



<p>Nolan McLean will return to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-mets">New York Mets</a> <strong>with a major boost of confidence</strong>. Despite a challenging outing in pool play against Italy, where he allowed 3 earned runs and 2 home runs over 3.0 innings, <strong>McLean demonstrated his elite potential by racking up 4 strikeouts</strong> and maintaining a high-velocity fastball. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/16103321/nolan-mclean-1-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Nolan McLean" class="wp-image-599010"><figcaption>Nolan McLean #26 of the United States.</figcaption></figure>



<p>His resilience throughout the tournament and the trust placed in him by the coaching staff for the final underscore his status as one of the most promising young arms heading into the 2026 MLB season.</p>


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<h2>Mendoza prepares for Opening Day</h2>



<p>As the 2026 season approaches, <strong>Carlos Mendoza is fine-tuning the final details</strong> for the Mets’ Opening Day at Citi Field, focusing on a roster that balances veteran stability with high-ceiling youth. </p>



<p>The most significant challenge remaining for the skipper is finalizing the bench and outfield rotation, where several players have made strong cases during a competitive spring training. </p>



<p>Ultimately, Mendoza faces a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/carlos-mendoza-braces-for-tough-call-tauchman-and-benge-vie-for-ny-mets-opening-day-role">difficult decision regarding the final roster spots for Mike Tauchman and Carson Benge</a>, as he weighs the reliable veteran presence of the “Summer Man” against the explosive potential of the club’s top hitting prospect.</p>



<h2>When is the Mets’ debut?</h2>



<p>The New York Mets will officially open their 2026 regular season at Citi Field on Thursday, March 26. <strong>They are scheduled to host the Pittsburgh Pirates with a first pitch at 1:15 p.m. ET.</strong></p>


NY Mets’ Carlos Mendoza knows Nolan McLean is ready for WBC final with Team USA

NY Mets' Carlos Mendoza knows Nolan McLean is ready for WBC final with Team USA - Bolavip US

Carlos Mendoza knows McLean is ready for WBC final

<p><strong>Team Italy</strong> will look to secure a spot in the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-baseball-classic">World Baseball Classic</a></strong> final, where <strong>Team USA</strong> is already waiting, with the biggest news being that <strong>Aaron Nola will start against Team Venezuela.</strong></p>



<p>The news was revealed by insider Jeff Passan, who reported the interesting change on his X account, <strong>which also features Michael Lorenzen as another key figure.</strong></p>



<p><em>“A change in plans, pivoting from Michael Lorenzen, who <strong>would go in a potential final against Team USA</strong> — which he beat in pool play,”</em> the reporter also added. If they reach the final, manager Francisco Cervelli <strong>is expected to go with a full bullpen game against Team USA.</strong></p>



<h2>All-or-nothing game for Italy</h2>



<p>Italy aim to maintain its undefeated 5-0 record tonight by relying on an aggressive offense that <strong>averages over eight runs per game</strong>. After a historic 8-6 victory over Puerto Rico in the quarterfinals—where they built an early lead and survived a late-inning rally—the Italians look to exploit Venezuela’s pitching depth with power hitters like Vinnie Pasquantino, who recently set a WBC record with three home runs in a single game.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/16150239/vinnie-pasquantino-1920x1080.webp" alt="Vinnie Pasquantino" class="wp-image-599217"><figcaption>Vinnie Pasquantino #9 of Team Italy.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Nola and Lorenzen’s numbers in this WBC</h2>


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<p>Both Michael Lorenzen and Aaron Nola have provided a much-needed veteran presence for <strong>Team Italy’s rotation during their historic 2026 WBC run</strong>. Lorenzen set the tone early in pool play by shutting down USA, throwing 4.2 scoreless innings with two strikeouts and allowing just two hits in a massive 8–6 upset. Aaron Nola matched that dominance in his tournament debut against Mexico, tossing 5.0 scoreless innings while striking out five and scattering four hits.</p>



<h2>Chasing the long-awaited final</h2>



<p>After making history by reaching their first-ever semifinal, Team Italy will look to clinch a spot in the final tonight,, as they face Venezuela at 8:00 p.m. ET. The winner of this clash <strong>at loanDepot park in Miami will move on to the championship game</strong> on Tuesday to face the United States.</p>


Italy change plans with Aaron Nola to face Venezuela for spot in WBC final vs USA

Italy change plans with Aaron Nola to face Venezuela for spot in WBC final vs USA - Bolavip US

Italy change plans with Nola to face Venezuela for spot in WBC final

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