May 19, 2022; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso (20) reacts after hitting a game winning two run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the tenth inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Team USA’s roster for the World Baseball Classic got even stronger with the addition of New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso.
The World Baseball Classic takes place this upcoming March, and Team USA is beginning to take shape. At the All-Star Game festivities, it was announced that Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout would play for Team USA and serve as their captain. Other names have announced their intent, such as Bryce Harper and Paul Goldschmidt. There is now a new star who plans to play for the United States in the offseason baseball tournament.
On Wednesday, Aug. 17, New York Mets star first baseman Pete Alonso accepted his invitation to play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.
Pete Alonso accepts invitation to play for Team USA in World Baseball Classic
Alonso is a huge get for Team USA, which is looking more and more like an All-Star team.
The star first baseman and two-time Home Run Derby champion is, to the shock of no one, having another great season with the Mets. Entering Wednesday, Aug. 17, Alonso leads the league with 97 runs batted in and 13 intentional walks.
Through 116 games, Alonso is slashing .277/.356/.530 while recording 29 home runs, 66 runs scored, and 119 hits.
Other names that have announced their interest in playing for the United States include St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado, Boston Red Sox second baseman Trevor Story, and Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto.
The World Baseball Classic begins on March 8, with Team USA looking to defend their title that they won all the way back in 2017. Given how their roster looks so far, they may have a good shot at doing so.
