USA Baseball today announced Mark DeRosa will manage the United States in the 2023 World Baseball Classic (WBC). DeRosa, a member of USA’s WBC team in 2009, will make his professional coaching debut as the U.S. looks to defend its world championship title next spring.
A 16-year Major League Baseball (MLB) veteran, who appeared in 1,241 games, DeRosa is currently a co-host of MLB Network’s daily morning program, MLB Central.
"I’m completely honoured and humbled to be named the manager of Team USA," said DeRosa. "Competing in the 2009 World Baseball Classic for the US was one of the greatest experiences of my baseball journey. Getting the chance to lead this star-studded roster and represent our country is an opportunity of a lifetime, and I can’t wait to get started."
The US will begin its WBC title defence as part of Pool C in Phoenix, Arizona, from March 11-15, facing Canada, Colombia, Mexico, and a to-be-determined qualifying team.
"Mark DeRosa brings a lifetime of baseball knowledge to the dugout for Team USA," said General Manager Tony Reagins.
"USA Baseball Executive Director/CEO Paul Seiler said: "Mark will bring a truly unique perspective to managing this team given his extensive professional career combined with his experience working for MLB Network. Few people are as informed and attuned to what is going on in professional baseball and the premier players in the game today as he is. We look forward to watching him lead this team as we look to defend our world championship title."
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