Mike Trout to captain Team USA at the 2023 World Baseball Classic

Mike Trout may not be on the field for Tuesday’s Midsummer Classic, but he will lead his country in another Classic next year.

Los Angeles Angels The outfielder announced on Monday that he would be the captain of Team USA 2023 World Baseball Classic,

He said, ‘I am excited to play for my country. “Representing our country means a lot to me and my family. It would be wonderful to have ‘USA’ in my chest.

Trout, a three-time AL MVP, did not play in the last World Baseball Classic, which took place in 2017.

The United States won that event with an 8-0 win over Puerto Rico in the same ballpark as Tuesday’s MLB All-Star Game. To be played, Dodger Stadium.

 He missed the Angels’ last four games before the All-Star break and will be eligible to return for the team’s matchup against the Atlanta Braves on Saturday.

The World Baseball Classic was initially scheduled for 2021, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Team USA is part of Pool C for the 2023 event along with Canada, Colombia and Mexico. Pool C matches will be played next spring from March 11-15 at Chase Field in Phoenix.

Should Team USA be kicked out of pool play, its remaining games will be determined at Londepot Park in Miami.