Summary
Phillies pitcher Jesús Luzardo declined an invitation to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic, choosing instead to support Venezuela, his family’s home country. Luzardo decided not to participate due to the high workload from the previous season and his anticipation of a crucial free-agent year.
Key Facts
- Phillies pitcher Jesús Luzardo rejected an offer to play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic (WBC).
- Luzardo wanted to represent Venezuela, where his family is from, instead of the U.S.
- He decided not to play in the WBC entirely to manage his workload before a key free-agent year.
- Team USA hoped to strengthen its pitching lineup with Luzardo, joining pitchers Paul Skenes and Logan Webb.
- Luzardo had a career-high workload last season, which influenced his decision.
- Venezuela is ranked among the top contenders to win the WBC, according to oddsmakers.
- Luzardo expressed pride in Venezuela, stating it was important for him to represent his family's country.
