Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso of the Mets appear focused as they head to WBC.
Jupiter, Florida — Following a 7-1 victory over St. Louis at Roger Dean Stadium in their final Grapefruit League game with the Mets, Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso celebrated their arrival in style at the World Baseball Classic.
Before leaving to make his debut for Team USA, Alonso stated, “I feel like I’m in a pretty decent spot, that I’m swinging at the right stuff and my swing decisions have been pretty consistent.” “Hopefully, I can contribute to an American championship.” It’s going to be a great time. I’m thrilled.
According to Buck Showalter, the three experienced infielders are playing well this spring, with Jeff McNeil adding a hit as well.
Showalter remarked, “Those guys are all definitely ready to go.”
He said, “Well hit,” pointing to Lindor’s home run that he hit into the wind from the right side in the top of the first. It’s midseason for Frankie.
Alonso “left us with a smile,” and McNeil “had a couple good swings,” according to Showalter.As the regular season draws near, having them back healthy and performing well will be crucial.
They are eager to represent their countries in the meantime, with McNeil playing for Team USA alongside Alonso and Lindor for Team Puerto Rico.”I feel incredibly proud every time I get to wear that uniform,” Lindor said, adding that he anticipated a joyous atmosphere surrounding Team Puerto Rico.
“We have a unique passion for the game,” Lindor remarked. “Sports and music are the two things that bring the world together.”
Alonso has never participated in the WBC, in contrast to Lindor.
“I’m not sure what to anticipate,” Alonso remarked. “It’s going to be a lot of fun, and hopefully we get some wins. This is a truly unique chance. Not many people get the opportunity to represent the United States of America.
Alonso claimed that throughout his high school years, he had attempted out for the 18-and-under squad but had not been selected.
“I would definitely prefer to make this one than the one in high school,” stated Alonso, who will be playing on Team USA with Astros teammate Kyle Tucker from high school. “This is incredibly awesome.”
Pitchers Edwin Diaz and Adam Ottavino are leaving, along with position players Eduardo Escobar and Omar Narvaez.
Jose Quintana is slated to pitch, but his availability for the tournament may be in question because he had left side discomfort during his outing on Sunday.
