Mark DeRosa’s Redemption: How USA Manager Led Team to WBC Final | Fox Sports

MIAMI – Mark DeRosa faced intense scrutiny earlier in the World Baseball Classic, but the Team USA manager is now being lauded as a key figure in the team’s improbable run to the championship game. Following a thrilling 2-1 victory over the Dominican Republic on Sunday, Alex Rodriguez publicly praised DeRosa’s strategic decisions, particularly those made during the semifinal matchup.

Rodriguez, speaking on FS1’s postgame show, highlighted DeRosa’s handling of the lineup and pitching changes. “The one guy I want to grant a shoutout to is Mark DeRosa,” Rodriguez said. “He has gotten absolutely hammered this week. And tonight, he made some brilliant moves — Gunnar Henderson, great defense and a big home run. And taking out Paul Skenes after 71 pitches and followed by a double play. Mark DeRosa pitched a gem.”

A pivotal decision involved inserting Gunnar Henderson into the starting lineup. Henderson had been largely relegated to a bench role throughout the tournament, with Bobby Witt Jr. And Alex Bregman typically occupying the left side of the infield. However, DeRosa recognized a favorable matchup against Dominican Republic starter Luis Severino. Prior to the game, DeRosa explained his reasoning, stating, “Gunnar’s got numbers against Severino.”

The gamble paid off handsomely. Henderson, boasting a 7-for-9 record with a home run, a double, and four RBIs against Severino entering Sunday’s game, promptly added another home run to his tally. His fourth-inning blast tied the game, providing a crucial momentum shift for Team USA.

Henderson’s performance wasn’t a surprise to those who had followed his limited appearances in the tournament. He had gone 5 for 10 with a home run in his first four games played, demonstrating his ability to contribute even in a part-time role. This contrasted with Bregman’s struggles, who had managed only 2 for 11 in his four games.

DeRosa’s managerial acumen extended to the pitching staff, specifically his handling of Paul Skenes. Starting Skenes, a highly touted prospect, was a logical choice given his availability. However, the timing of his removal proved equally astute.

Skenes encountered his first real trouble in the fifth inning, allowing back-to-back singles to Fernando Tatis Jr. And Ketel Marte. Instead of allowing Skenes to face the dangerous Juan Soto, DeRosa opted to bring in sidearm reliever Tyler Rogers. The move proved immediately effective, as Soto grounded into an inning-ending double play, preserving Team USA’s 2-1 lead.

DeRosa continued to navigate the bullpen with precision throughout the remainder of the game. Griffin Jax, David Bednar, Garrett Whitlock, and Mason Miller combined to shut down the Dominican Republic offense, allowing only three baserunners in the final four innings and preventing any runs from scoring.

With DeRosa’s strategic decisions proving instrumental, Team USA now stands one win away from claiming the World Baseball Classic title. They will face either Italy or Venezuela on Tuesday, with Nolan McLean expected to take the mound. The team’s journey, marked by early criticism of DeRosa’s choices, has culminated in a championship opportunity, a testament to his ability to adapt and produce impactful decisions under pressure.