PHOENIX — After playing for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic the last two editions, Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Nolan Arenado decided to switch jerseys and represent Team Puerto Rico in this year’s Classic — a decision that hasn’t sat well with some Team USA fans.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Mar 18, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; USA third baseman Nolan Arenado (28) hits a single during the seventh inning against Venezuela at LoanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
Arenado, one of the game’s most prominent American-born players with Puerto Rican heritage, acknowledged the backlash he’s faced in recent days as his commitment rolled out online. While support from Puerto Rican fans has been strong, much of the reaction online has been hostile.
“Obviously, playing for the USA was great,” Arenado said on the Foul Territory Podcast. “I’ve already had some pretty harsh DMs coming at me by some people.”
The Diamondbacks third baseman revealed that Yadier Molina recruited him to Team Puerto Rico, something Arenado has been preparing for throughout the offseason.
Mar 18, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; USA third baseman Nolan Arenado (28) throws the baseball to first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (not pictured) to retire Venezuela shortstop Andres Gimenez (not pictured) during the sixth inning at LoanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
“I’m not too concerned about everyone’s feelings,” he said. “I’m excited to open up in Puerto Rico and help this team win and play with some great players.”
Arenado also revealed some of the messages he received from fans after his commitment was made public. One fan sent the Diamondbacks star a video of himself throwing Arenado’s USA jersey in the trash, while another called him a “traitor.”
The emotional stakes surrounding the WBC are nothing new, as national pride often blurs with history. While some players, like Arenado, weren’t born in the countries they represent in the tournament, roots and heritage also take precedence.
Mar 22, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; United States first baseman Eric Hosmer (35) and third baseman Nolan Arenado (12) celebrate after scoring against Puerto Rico during the seventh inning of the 2017 World Baseball Classic at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
The situation highlights the unique situation for athletes who hold multiple identities and want to compete at the international level. For example, fellow Diamondbacks outfielder Alek Thomas was born and raised in Chicago but will don a Team Mexico jersey to represent his heritage.
Those who identify with only one country or community may not fully understand the unique opportunities these players have — the ability to represent the cultures they identify with rather than only their birth country.
USA’s Nolan Arenado fields a ball at third base against Colombia during their World Baseball Classic game at Chase Field in Phoenix on March 15, 2023.
Baseball World Baseball Classic Final Day © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
For Arenado, his decision to choose Team Puerto Rico over Team USA came down to circumstances beyond emotion.
“I didn’t get asked to play for [the] USA,” Arenado said. “Listen, it’s baseball. It’s not a big deal. I’m excited to play for Puerto Rico, and if we end up playing [the] USA, I think that’d be pretty cool.”
Nolan Arenado says he’s gotten some harsh messages on social media for accepting Team Puerto Rico’s invite to play in the WBC.
“Listen, I didn’t get asked to play for Team USA.” 😂 pic.twitter.com/y0b25KeEtP
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) January 31, 2026
The World Baseball Classic is set to begin Thursday, March 5, with the finals scheduled for Tuesday, March 17.
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
Suns’ Dillon Brooks doesn’t hold back on Lakers’ LeBron James during live stream
