Salvador Perez #13 of Venezuela points towards Eugenio Suarez #7 at first base after Suarez hit an RBI single in the eighth inning against the Dominican Republic at loanDepot park on March 11, 2023 in Miami, Florida.
Eric Espada
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During Venezuela’s 3-2 win over the United States in the World Baseball Classic, Fox Sports broadcaster Joe Davis noted the contributions made by Boston Red Sox players.
“I think the Boston Red Sox have won the World Baseball Classic,” Davis said during Tuesday’s game.
But the Royals could make a similar claim, as the KC players in the WBC won over fans of other teams. From Bobby Witt Jr.’s incredible defensive work for Team USA to Vinnie Pasquantino and Jac Caglianone helping Italy reach new heights, to Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez winning the title with Venezuela … it was a great run for Royals players.
Their contributions will be remembered for quite some time, too, because the National Baseball Hall of Fame has acquired items the Royals players used in the WBC.
Garcia, the Royals’ third baseman who was the WBC MVP, sent his batting helmet.
Perez’s shin guards, chest protector, helmet and mask are going to be on display.
The bat used by Pasquantino during the WBC will be in the Hall, too. Pasquantino was the first player in WBC history to hit three home runs in a game. He talked about hearing from the Hall of Fame after Italy advanced to the knockout round.
“The Hall of Fame reached out. Normally, I’m used to seeing the Hall of Fame reach out to one of my teammates in Kansas City,” Pasquantino said. “Actually, two of my teammates, so I play with some special guys. So a lot of my teammates. It’s the first time they’ve ever reached out for something of mine. It’s interesting. It’s pretty cool. …
“They’d like the bat. I said, ‘I need the bat for a few more days.’”
This story was originally published March 19, 2026 at 11:37 AM.
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