Dusty Baker’s Challenge: Leading Nicaragua in the World Baseball Classic
JUPITER, Fla. – Veteran manager Dusty Baker understands the odds are stacked against Team Nicaragua in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Facing formidable opponents like Team USA, Japan, and the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua isn’t considered a frontrunner. However, Baker is determined to instill a fighting spirit in his team, vowing they won’t be an easy out.
“Nicaragua is more in a David and Goliath situation,” Baker stated, acknowledging the disparity in star power. The roster lacks established MLB stars, with Mark Vientos being the only player with significant big-league playing time last year. Despite this, Baker emphasizes the importance of competition.
Competing with the Best
“The key word is to compete,” Baker explained. “Everybody knows how strong those other teams are, but everyone has to put the uniform on and play the game the same way. Hopefully, we can play hard, play smart, and bring some pride not only to Nicaragua now, but also inspire future generations of players.”
Team Nicaragua prepared for the Classic with five exhibition games, securing victories in two, including a notable 2-1 win against the St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. This victory provided a much-needed boost in confidence as they head to Miami.
Opening Match and Learning Curve
Nicaragua will kick off their pool play against the Dominican Republic on Friday at 7 p.m. ET on FS2 at loanDepot park in Miami. Baker admits he’s still getting to know his players and faces the challenge of scouting unfamiliar opponents, particularly from the Netherlands and Israel.
“There are a lot of players [in the Classic] I don’t know, especially when we play the Netherlands and Israel,” Baker said. “There are a lot of guys you don’t know from the other side. So we are on a fast learning curve.”
A Hard-Fought Victory Against the Cardinals
The game against the Cardinals remained scoreless until the fourth inning when Emanuel Trujillo launched a two-run homer off St. Louis’ No. 1 starter, Matthew Liberatore. Baker highlighted the team’s ability to stay competitive in every game.
“We are in every game, and that’s key,” Baker said. “We are one pitch, one hit, one play away from winning every game that we have played. Nothing happens overnight.”
The Cardinals utilized eight pitchers and managed six hits, but struggled with runners in scoring position, going 0-for-10. The Cardinals’ lone run came in the eighth inning via a solo home run by Andy Yerzy off Leonel Sequera, who was on loan from the Cardinals.
Looking Ahead
“Every victory is tough. You take every one you can and any way you can,” Baker concluded. “We received good pitching and defense today. We still have to get better at getting runners in scoring position. Hopefully, that will come.” Baker’s leadership will be crucial as Nicaragua navigates the challenges of the World Baseball Classic, aiming to make a mark despite being considered underdogs. You can find more information about the World Baseball Classic on MLB.com.
