MIAMI – Alex Rodriguez emphatically credited Team USA manager Mark DeRosa for a masterful performance in Sunday’s 2-1 victory over the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic semifinal. The win propelled the United States to the tournament final, where they will face either Italy or Venezuela on Tuesday. Rodriguez, speaking on FS1 following the game, lauded DeRosa’s strategic decisions, particularly those surrounding Gunnar Henderson and pitcher Paul Skenes.
DeRosa’s leadership has been a focal point throughout the tournament, especially after some early scrutiny. Rodriguez highlighted the manager’s ability to make crucial adjustments, stating, “The one guy I aim for to grant a shoutout to is Mark DeRosa. He has gotten absolutely hammered this week. And tonight, he made some brilliant moves.” The praise comes after a game where DeRosa’s tactical choices proved pivotal in securing Team USA’s spot in the championship game.
One key decision was the inclusion of Henderson in the starting lineup. Henderson, who had primarily been a reserve during the tournament, was chosen due to his strong track record against Dominican Republic starter Luis Severino. Prior to Sunday’s game, Henderson had gone 7 for 9 in his career against Severino, with a home run and four RBIs, according to game notes. DeRosa acknowledged this advantage, telling reporters, “Gunnar’s got numbers against Severino.”
Henderson capitalized on the opportunity, launching a home run against Severino in the fourth inning to tie the game. He finished the night with a significant contribution, going 2-for-4 overall. While Henderson had shown flashes in limited action earlier in the tournament, going 5 for 10 with a home run in his first four games, his performance on Sunday was particularly impactful. In contrast, Alex Bregman had struggled, going 2 for 11 in his four previous games.
DeRosa’s handling of the pitching staff also drew praise. He made the decision to remove Skenes after 71 pitches, despite a strong performance, bringing in sidearm reliever Tyler Rogers with runners on base in the fifth inning. Rogers induced a game-ending double play from Juan Soto, preserving Team USA’s lead. Rodriguez remarked on this move, saying DeRosa “pitched a gem.”
The bullpen continued to shine, with Griffin Jax, David Bednar, Garrett Whitlock, and Mason Miller collectively shutting down the Dominican Republic offense over the final four innings, allowing only three baserunners. This strong relief performance solidified the victory and underscored DeRosa’s ability to manage his pitching staff effectively.
Team USA’s journey to the final has been marked by strategic adjustments and a willingness to utilize all available talent. Mark DeRosa, who previously managed Team USA in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, leading them to a silver medal, has demonstrated a knack for making the right calls at the right time. USA Baseball announced his return as manager on April 10, 2025.
The United States will now await the winner of the Italy-Venezuela semifinal. MLB.com reports that Nolan McLean, a righty from the New York Mets organization, is likely to take the mound in the final. The team is aiming for its second World Baseball Classic title, hoping to build on the success they’ve already achieved under DeRosa’s guidance.
The outcome of Tuesday’s game will determine whether DeRosa can lead Team USA to championship glory, solidifying his reputation as a shrewd and effective manager on the international stage. The team’s performance thus far has been a testament to DeRosa’s ability to navigate the complexities of the tournament and maximize the potential of his roster.
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