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Harper Benched: USA Faces Italy in WBC Showdown
11 Mar
Summary
- Bryce Harper is not starting for Team USA against Italy.
- Paul Goldschmidt will start at first base for the U.S. team.
- Harper's absence is to give Goldschmidt playing time before pool play ends.
Team USA is set to face Italy in a significant World Baseball Classic matchup on Tuesday night. Notably, Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper will not be in the starting lineup for this pivotal game.
Instead, Paul Goldschmidt will take over at first base, batting seventh in the order. The decision to bench Harper appears to be a strategic move to provide Goldschmidt with playing time as the pool play portion of the tournament nears its end. Harper has had a modest start to the WBC, going 2-for-9 with two singles so far.
Italy is scheduled to start right-handed pitcher Michael Lorenzen. While Harper is not starting, he is expected to be available as a pinch-hitter or defensive replacement if the situation calls for it later in the game. This game is considered important for the U.S. team's progression in the tournament.
