The World Baseball Classic has made its way to Southwest Florida, bringing excitement and international baseball talent to the region. Teams participating in the WBC are playing exhibition games against Major League Baseball teams during spring training. On Tuesday night, Puerto Rico faced off against the Boston Red Sox in front of a packed crowd at JetBlue Park.
Puerto Rican fans showed up in full force, showcasing their pride with flags, airhorns, and music, even for an exhibition game. For them, these games are more than just practice matches as fans are getting ready for the World Baseball Classic.
“For us Puerto Ricans, this is our World Series,” said JR Figueroa.
JR and Evelyn Figueroa traveled from Jacksonville to see Puerto Rico play against the Red Sox.
“It’s going to be fun and loud,” said JR Figueroa.
The atmosphere at JetBlue Park was electric with Puerto Rican passion on full display.
“You play a little salsa, I’m sure somebody’s going to dance,” said Will Burgos.
“This is our sport. This is what we do over on the island,” said Alejandro Ruiz.
Before the game, Carlos Beltran, recently named to the Hall of Fame, was present on the field. As Puerto Rico’s general manager, he emphasized the importance of the tournament.
“I have learned in the game of baseball. It’s not about the names, it’s about the mens. That when you cross that line you got to give the best you have,” said Beltran.
Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Nolan Arenado also took the field for Puerto Rico, expressing his gratitude for being part of the team.
“I didn’t expect to get asked by anybody you know. I expected to go home and have a normal Spring Training but I was batting in St. Louis and Martin Aldonado was catching and he asked me like would you be interested in playing first base. And I’m like I don’t know man let me think about that like you know I finished my at bat… I’m just thankful they asked me and it’s an honor,” said Arenado.
Beltran shared the significance of the opportunity to represent Puerto Rico in the tournament.
“We don’t have this opportunity to wear PR on our chest or PR on our heads you know but when we get this opportunity, we try to show up. We try for our fans,” said Beltran.
Puerto Rico beat the Red Sox 5-3. The Puerto Rican team is set to play their second exhibition game in Southwest Florida on Wednesday against the Minnesota Twins.