HOUSTON — Wednesday has become one of the most important nights so far in the World Baseball Classic, and Arizona Diamondbacks and Team Mexico outfielder Alek Thomas is leaning into the drama.
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Mar 8, 2026; Houston, TX, United States; Mexico center fielder Alek Thomas (5) celebrates his run against Brazil in the fourth inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Thomas took to Instagram to post a story featuring a picture of Mexico teammate Randy Arozarena attempting to greet Team USA catcher Cal Raleigh before the two clubs faced each other on Monday. The caption on the picture read: “Take things personally.”
The caption comes after Raleigh’s refusal to greet Arozarena sparked explosive comments from Arozarena postgame following Mexico’s defeat, fueling discussion on social media. The moment drew additional attention because both players are teammates with the Seattle Mariners. However, Mexico now plays a role in determining whether Team USA advances out of pool play.
Mar 10, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Team Mexico outfielder Alek Thomas posts story on Instagram of teammate Randy Arozarena and Team USA catcher Cal Raleigh. Mandatory Credit: Alek Thomas Instagram (@alekthomas22)
With the United States’ loss to Italy on Tuesday, the only way for Team USA to move on involves several scenarios tied to the outcome of the Mexico-Italy matchup in the final game of pool play.
Pool B scenarios ahead of Italy vs. Mexico on Wednesday:
1. Italy wins = Italy, USA advance
2. Mexico wins + scores 5+ runs = Mexico, USA advance
3. Mexico wins + scores 4 or fewer runs = Mexico, Italy advance
— Underdog MLB (@UnderdogMLB) March 11, 2026
With that in mind, Thomas’ timing in posting the image reflects the emotional stakes surrounding the tournament. The refusal of the handshake, combined with comments from both players involved, has added another layer of intensity to this year’s WBC.
Thomas has often embraced heightened moments in baseball. That mindset was evident during the Diamondbacks’ 2023 postseason run, when Arizona continued advancing despite entering each series as the underdog. It was another example of how Thomas, though typically reserved, can channel emotion to fuel his team.
Mar 8, 2026; Houston, TX, United States; Mexico outfielder Julian Ornelas (31) celebrates hitting a two-run home run against Brazil in the sixth inning to give the Mexico team a win by the Mercy Rule at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Team Mexico is also looking to advance out of pool play, which would make Thomas the fifth member of the Diamondbacks organization to move on with his national team — joining Nolan Arenado, Ketel Marte, Geraldo Perdomo and Eduardo RodrÃguez.
Wednesday isn’t just about winning for Thomas and Team Mexico. It’s also a reminder of how quickly momentum — and emotion — can come full circle in the game of baseball
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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