A remarkable journey from fan to player is about to unfold for Roman Anthony, as he prepares to don the USA jersey for the World Baseball Classic (WBC). This story is a testament to the power of dreams and the rapid evolution of careers in the world of baseball.
Three years ago, Roman Anthony witnessed an unforgettable WBC finale, where Team Japan emerged victorious over Team USA. Little did he know then that he would soon be part of the very team he cheered for. Now, at just 21 years old, Anthony is set to become the youngest player on Team USA's roster for the upcoming WBC.
But here's where it gets controversial... Anthony's inclusion comes after an injury to outfielder Corbin Carroll, creating an opportunity for the young talent. With an outfield that boasts Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees and Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs, Anthony's addition is a testament to his skill and potential.
"Amazing" is how Anthony describes this opportunity. Growing up, watching the WBC and seeing his favorite players represent the USA was a dream. Now, he's living that dream, and it's a feeling of pure bliss.
Drafted in 2022, Anthony's first professional spring training with the Red Sox was a stepping stone to this moment. He and his fellow draftees drove to Miami to watch the WBC finale in 2023, an experience that fueled his ambition.
"Getting to represent the USA at any time would be more than a blessing," Anthony said. And this is the part most people miss - the humility and excitement of a young player realizing his dream.
Anthony will be joining 11 other Red Sox players on the 40-man roster for the WBC, with reliever Garrett Whitlock being the only other USA roster member from the team. However, he'll be reuniting with Alex Bregman, who's set to play third base. Anthony and Bregman developed a close bond last season, and now they'll take the field together once more.
As for the upcoming WBC schedule, Team USA has an exhibition game on March 3rd in Arizona, followed by their first official game against Brazil on March 6th.
In other news, Jarren Duran, one of the Red Sox's big-league outfielders, has been in the trade rumor mill this offseason. With Anthony, Abreu, and Rafaela all signed up, Duran, the oldest of the group, seemed like a potential trade piece to fill pitching or infield needs. However, Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow has insisted on keeping all four outfielders.
Duran, for his part, has ignored the trade rumors, leaving it all in God's hands. He believes his speed and power are too valuable for the Red Sox to let go of easily.
"I would be the fastest DH in the league," Duran joked, referring to his potential role as a designated hitter.
Duran had a solid 2025 season, but it didn't match his All-Star performance in 2024. Despite this, he's ready to leave the past behind and focus on the new year.
Like Anthony, Duran is also headed to the WBC, but he'll be representing Team Mexico. He's been practicing in right field, a position he's less familiar with, to prepare for his role on the Mexican team.
Additionally, Tanner Houck, who underwent Tommy John surgery last August, has returned to throwing. His goal is to be back in action by September, and he's taking a slow and steady approach to his recovery.
"Been looking forward to this day for a while," Houck said. It's an exciting first step towards his comeback.
Meanwhile, Patrick Sandoval, who also underwent Tommy John surgery, is feeling good and is scheduled for a bullpen session and another live batting practice this week.
In other team news, Marcelo Mayer played second base, and Caleb Durbin played third in infield drills. Romy Gonzalez, dealing with shoulder inflammation, is yet to begin baseball activities.
As the WBC approaches, the Red Sox are gearing up for an exciting tournament, with their players representing their respective countries. It's a time of anticipation and preparation, and the team is ready to showcase their talent on the global stage.
