MIAMI — Fans from around the world packed into loanDepot Park ahead of the World Baseball Classic championship, turning the ballpark into a global gathering place as Team USA prepared to face Venezuela in Tuesday night’s final.
“I’m just looking for a great game of baseball,” one fan said.
Inside the team store, jerseys and hats flew off the shelves as international pride was on full display.
“I came here the day after Japan lost so I’m finding this really hilarious,” said fan Shogo Sezaki. “It says Japan undefeated. But now you’re defeated. Yeah.”
For some, getting to Miami was simple.
“First time ever that Venezuela goes to a final I’m from Miami so I’m representing today I’m trying to buy some jerseys,” said Benjamin Jara.
For others, it took much more.
“We drove 23 hours straight through overnight,” said Ava and Jenny Solar, fans visiting from Kansas City.
The matchup between the United States and Venezuela marks the championship game of the tournament, which has drawn fans from across the globe to Miami for all three rounds.
Even the youngest fans felt the weight of the moment.
“Venezuela vs. USA and who do you hope wins?” Local 10’s Saira Anwar asked a 10-year-old fan named Adrian.
“Venezuela!” he said.
For Venezuelan supporters, the game represents more than baseball — it’s history.
“It makes me emotional when I see them win,” Adrian added.
Others said the team’s success has united a nation.
“We’re really happy for everything that’s happening in our country and this it’s very significant for Venezuela,” another fan said. “I’m pretty sure the whole entire country is gonna be like they’re gonna stop everything they’re doing. They’re gonna watch the game today.”
With first pitch approaching, every swing is expected to carry meaning far beyond South Florida.
“It’s just a national sentiment right now. We’re in the finals, Nicolás Maduro is in prison. It’s like we’re celebrating everything right,” another fan said. “It’ll be like the cherry on top to win today I think.”
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