Team USA may not play in Tuesday’s World Baseball Classic final.
Mason Miller closed out the U.S.’s semifinal win over the Dominican Republic on Sunday, hitting Geraldo Perdomo with what was described as a “strikeout.” But the San Diego Padres closer threw 22 pitches in this game. If he pitches on Tuesday, Miller will take the mound three times in five days.
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However, if Miller is able to pitch, head coach Mark DeRosa may need him, as the American bullpen may also be without reliever David Bednar due to pitch count concerns, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported. Bednar threw 18 pitches in Sunday’s win.
Miller and Bednar were not used outside of the World Baseball Classic pitch count. In addition, both substitutes will have a day off. Therefore, their availability comes down to personal preference and the wishes of the Padres and New York Yankees.
Padres manager Craig Staman told reporters on Monday that he has discussed his use with Miller during the WBC and that his availability for Tuesday’s finale will depend on how he feels before the game. Miller said via The Athletic that he wants to pitch, “but I also have to be smart about it.”
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Another consideration for Miller is that his pitches are more laborious. He threw 35 pitches at over 100 mph and struck out 10 in four innings.
Stamen doesn’t like to prevent DeRosa from using one of his best pitchers, but every MLB team with WBC players has to consider what’s best for their pitchers while preparing for a long regular season.
“They’re managing this team now, but they’re not managers of Major League Baseball players,” Staman told reporters.
“It’s definitely a tough situation for him and Andy [Pettitte] Managing the pitching staff,” he added. “They communicate well with us and understand our situation with Mason and the other pitchers. “
Garrett Whitlock, who threw 16 pitches in Sunday’s win, is clearly available for Sunday’s victory. The Americans also added relievers Jeff Hoffman, who replaced Clayton Kershaw, and Will Vest, who replaced Tarik Skubal ahead of the WBC semifinals.
