World Baseball Classic Championship Game
MIAMI (AP) — The atmosphere at the World Baseball Classic championship game in Miami on Tuesday night buzzed with enthusiasm as fans gathered in droves, representing both the U.S. and Venezuela. Among these fans was Pablo Cuerta, a Venezuelan-born American citizen, who donned a Venezuela jersey coupled with a U.S. flag, reflecting the dual pride he felt for both nations.
“I was born in Venezuela, and this country gave me the opportunity to come, to be a citizen,” Cuerta explained after making the drive from Orlando. “I appreciate both countries.”
Political Tensions and Baseball’s Unifying Power
With the tournament taking place in a time marked by political tension, including the imprisonment of former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro on drug charges in the U.S., the joy surrounding baseball seemed undeterred. Venezuelans filled the Miami Marlins’ ballpark throughout the tournament, showcasing their support for the team.
The excitement peaked during the pregame ceremony when both national flags were presented at home plate, eliciting a roaring reaction from the crowd. Miami resident Argenis Masiaf, who had painted his face with the colors of the Venezuelan flag, expressed the significance of this moment:
“This is beyond sport. It is well deserved… This is the moment for Venezuela to accomplish something special and memorable.”
Unity Through Sports
While the Venezuelan team’s players and coaches have largely steered clear of political discussions, Manager Omar López acknowledged the immense pride and unity that reaching the finals instilled within the Venezuelan people.
“I expect the whole country to be watching. Tonight, everyone is going to be together,”
he said, emphasizing the unifying power of sports, particularly baseball, in fostering discipline and determination among youth in Venezuela.
Community and Cultural Significance
Fans outside the stadium earlier that evening reflected this sentiment. Josh Rojas, who had beautifully painted a “V” for Venezuela across his face, remarked:
“It’s just awesome to see a whole country, a whole community come together to support this country through baseball.”
Similarly, Jaci Douglas, a medical student from Pennsylvania with Venezuelan ties, described the event as one that transcended mere sport:
“They told me that if I miss this, I’d regret it. … It’s an event.”
Cuerta recalled the fervor back home in Venezuela, noting that his friends and family were all tuned into the game.
“It’s going to be a lot of parties, everywhere,” he said, emphasizing baseball’s deep-rooted significance in Venezuelan culture. He added, “When we’re born, that’s the first thing your parents do. Before they send you to school, they send you to the field. That’s what they mean when they say it’s in our blood.”
