clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Dodgers provide insight on World Baseball Classic

If you buy something from an SB Nation link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement.

World Baseball Classic Pool C: Great Britain v United States Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

The 2023 World Baseball Classic has brought fans from across the world glued to the action, racking in record-breaking viewership numbers across the globe. While the tournament is an incredible chance for players to play for their country, there are some who are questioning its validity after injuries to some of baseball’s brightest stars.

The recent debate has stemmed from Edwin Diaz’s injury, who tore his petellar tendon after celebrating Puerto Rico’s win over the Dominican Republic. While critics have called the World Baseball Classic a “meaningless exhibition series” as Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register notes, a handful of Dodgers players, as well as manager Dave Roberts, have chimed in on whether the Classic maintains its significance despite the risk it poses.

Outfielder Trayce Thompson, who participated for Great Britain, and infielder Miguel Rojas spoke specifically on Diaz’s injury and the ramifications it has generated.

“I think it is (worth the risk),” Thompson told Plunkett. “Freak things happen. My brother (NBA star Klay Thompson), for example, he did a normal step – just a step, not any crazy athletic move, just a step and injured his Achilles. Accidents happen.”

Austin Barnes, who helped Mexico to a comeback win over Puerto Rico on Friday in Miami, opined after the game on how players view the tournament, From Jorge Castillo at the Los Angeles Times:

Links