Miller Thrashes DeRosa in a Heart-Pounding ALCS Final!
During the championship game of the World Baseball Classic between Team USA and Team Venezuela, manager Mark DeRosa made another baffling decision . Venezuela secured the victory, 3-2, winning the tournament for the first time in its national history. It was electrifying .
Despite maintaining a lead for the first seven innings of the game, Venezuela allowed a home run to Bryce Harper to tie up the match in the bottom of the eighth. Team USA reliever David Bednar was considered " likely out " before the game due to pitch count restrictions. However, the status of the flame-throwing Mason Miller was a bit more uncertain .
Most of Team USA's top bullpen arms are available tonight 🇺🇸 @Ken_Rosenthal gives us the latest pic. twitter. com/N5JaN1e9Pb — FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) March 18, 2026 Before the game, DeRosa told reporters that Miller was officially available to use from the bullpen.
ESPN's Jeff Passan and FOX's Ken Rosenthal both clarified to report that Miller would only come in for Team USA during a one-inning "save situation" for Team USA. Once the game was tied 2-2, it was Team USA reliever Garrett Whitlock (and not Miller) who came in to hold the line in the top of the ninth inning. While it was not officially a save situation, it was certainly a moment that called for the best pitcher available on the mound.
Mason Miller in the WBC: 0 hits given up 0 runs given up 10 strikeouts 35 pitches over 100 mph Hitters are 0-12 against him He’s averaging 22. 5 strikeouts per 9 But Garrett Whitlock was chosen to pitch the 9th inning instead of him… — Jordan Moore (@iJordanMoore) March 18, 2026 During this tournament, that arm belonged to Miller. He had not given up a hit or a run during the 2026 World Baseball Classic and he had recorded 10 strikeouts in his appearances.