Of course, Americans, at least those unable to think big, cannot embrace what is happening around the world. Yes, the (World Baseball Classic) has its critics, but there are two distinguishing characteristics of the party poopers: they are overwhelmingly American and they overwhelmingly don’t actually attend or watch the event. They preach from Barcalounger pulpits with their head turned away. You cannot watch these games and talk to these players and understand their emotions — including the humbled Americans — and think this is something not worthwhile.

-Tom Verducci