The Athletic is providing live updates for the USA vs. Mexico game in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Vinnie Pasquantino’s Family Ties
Vinnie Pasquantino has a strong connection to his heritage, largely due to his grandfather’s influence. “My grandfather won’t stop asking me about Italy,” he shared.
Passion for Team Italy
Denny, Pasquantino’s grandfather, pays close attention to Vinnie’s career as the Kansas City Royals’ first baseman, but his enthusiasm peaks when his grandson joins Team Italy for the World Baseball Classic. Denny eagerly inquires about the tournament, often disregarding details like spring training, expressing his excitement for the games.
Representing Heritage
For many players in the WBC, this tournament is a chance to connect with their roots. Pasquantino, who was born in Richmond, Virginia, sees this as an opportunity to honor his family and heritage. “It’s a chance to play for your family and be proud of that,” he stated.
Wide Representation in WBC
Pasquantino isn’t alone in this sentiment. Team Italy features many players born in the U.S., with 21 having played in the big leagues, marking the highest number for any team outside the USA. Other notable players include Austin Wells, representing the Dominican Republic, and Manny Machado, who chose the Dominican Republic to honor his late grandfather.
Ties to Family Legacy
Rowdy Tellez feels a deep personal connection to Team Mexico, influenced by his grandfather’s baseball legacy. “We’re very proud Mexicans,” he remarked, adding that he fully embraces his Mexican identity while living in America. Similarly, Taijuan Walker aims to honor his late grandmother by representing Mexico, which gives special meaning to his participation.
Balancing Nationality and Language
Throughout the WBC, the trend of players representing their heritage rather than their birthplace is evident. This allows for diverse rosters across various teams, and players often navigate language barriers together. Team Mexico, for example, includes 13 U.S.-born MLB players communicating in both Spanish and English.
Exploring Family History
When Pasquantino first learned he was eligible to join Team Italy, he researched his family background, even visiting Italy. This exploration added depth to his connection, now prioritizing his baseball career over a previous legal case linked to his family name.
— Sahadev Sharma, Zack Meisel, and Chad Jennings of The Athletic contributed to this report
