SnakeBytes 3/3: The WBC Exhibitions Begin Today
A Father-Son Duo Takes Center Stage
The World Baseball Classic (WBC) is set to kick off today, and with it, a unique story unfolds as Andruw Jones, the Netherlands' manager, and his son, Druw Jones, a Diamondbacks prospect, form the first father-son manager-player duo in WBC history. While their relationship is reportedly friendly, with Andruw joking about Druw joining his team, the real focus is on the team's defensive struggles.
Manager Torey Lovullo aims to improve defense after a poor 2025 season, but so far, the Diamondbacks have committed seven errors in 10 games this spring, which is a 162-game pace of 113 errors. This is despite the presence of gold glove-caliber players like Carlos Santana and Nolan Arenado, who are currently away preparing for the WBC.
Contract Decisions and Tax Implications
Meanwhile, Merrill Kelly, an MLB starting pitcher, revealed his contract negotiations during the offseason. He had a 3-year offer from the San Diego Padres, but ultimately chose a 2-year deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks. One of the factors influencing his decision was the tax implications in California.
Around the League
Paul Goldschmidt, with 63.8 career WAR, is a strong contender for the Hall of Fame, despite some voters' hesitancy towards first basemen. However, the righty-swinging Grichuk, who played for the Diamondbacks and Royals last season, struggled with both teams, with a .206/.267/.299 batting average in Kansas City. The Major League Baseball announced that the Spring Breakout series will be played as a tournament in 2027 and 2028, with single-elimination style and two champions crowned, one in the Grapefruit League and one in the Cactus League.
