Nolan Arenado Team Rubio

San Juan, Puerto Rico – For Nolan Arenado, the roar of the crowd at Estadio Hiram Bithorn on Saturday wasn’t just another baseball game; it was a revelation. Following a dramatic extra-innings victory for Puerto Rico over Panama, 4-3, in front of over 18,000 fervent fans, the veteran third baseman admitted the experience resonated deeper than even his 2017 World Baseball Classic championship with the United States. The energy, the passion, and the sheer unity of the Puerto Rican fanbase, he says, “opened my eyes.”

Arenado, a 34-year-old with roots in Guayama, Puerto Rico, described being overwhelmed by the outpouring of support after Darell Hernáiz’s game-winning home run. The celebration wasn’t confined to the field; it spilled into the stands, with fans singing “Preciosa” – a beloved Puerto Rican anthem – with unrestrained joy. This experience, he explained, solidified his decision to honor his heritage and represent Puerto Rico in the 2026 Classic.

“For me, Saturday was something that opened my eyes,” Arenado stated during a press conference ahead of Puerto Rico’s game against Cuba. “To see the country united and to see the passion and the love. The game had finished, and there were still so many people there from the first pitch. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. It means a lot.”

Despite not yet recording a hit in two games, Arenado contributed with a bases-loaded sacrifice fly to drive in Puerto Rico’s first run when trailing 2-1. He was struck by the way his teammates and the fans responded to that contribution, treating it as if it were a game-winning home run. “It’s incredible what they do here,” he added, highlighting a different approach to the game he’s observed in Puerto Rico.

This isn’t Arenado’s first foray into the World Baseball Classic. He was a key member of the victorious U.S. Team in 2017, playing at Dodger Stadium, and reached the final with the U.S. In 2023, where they lost to Japan in Miami. Though, the connection to his mother’s homeland proved to be a powerful draw. Yadier Molina, the manager of the Puerto Rican team, personally extended the invitation, leveraging a strong relationship forged during their two seasons together with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2021 and 2022. “He asked me at the finish of last season, and honestly, that lit a fire in me,” Arenado revealed. “I’ve been preparing all offseason for this. I love Yadi, he’s one of the best people and smartest players I’ve played with. It was an honor that he asked me.”

The decision to play for Puerto Rico wasn’t without its critics, with some U.S. Fans questioning his allegiance. However, Arenado appears unfazed. “I don’t worry too much about what others think,” he said. “As I said, this will be the last time I can do this…”

Arenado similarly noted the unique style of baseball played in Puerto Rico, emphasizing a win-at-all-costs mentality. “The style of baseball played here is about winning, and I wish more teams, and I wish the game was more like this, that feeling that the only thing that matters is whether you contribute to the victory, because that’s how you get the best out of people, and that’s how everyone gets involved.”

The atmosphere at Estadio Hiram Bithorn, which underwent renovations prior to the tournament, clearly left a lasting impression. Arenado described the park as “brutal…in a good way,” acknowledging the warmth but ultimately praising the facility, as reported by El Vocero. He added that the joy and chants he witnessed surpassed his expectations.

As Puerto Rico looked to secure a spot in the quarterfinals against Cuba on Monday, Arenado’s experience served as a powerful reminder of the profound connection between a player and his roots, and the electrifying energy of a passionate fanbase. The team’s performance and their continued advancement in the tournament will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans across the island and beyond.

Share your thoughts on Arenado’s experience and Puerto Rico’s run in the Classic in the comments below!