World Baseball Classic Diary - Sun 12th March - GB v Canada

Sunday 12th March

GB 8 Canada 18

Inspiration comes in many forms and often in the toughest of circumstances.

Despite the result of the Canadian game, British fans and ball players can only be inspired by the presence and performance of the GB Baseball team in Phoenix

There was a bright start with three runs on the board with some good hitting and excellent base running as GB took a 3-0 lead at the top of the first.

Right fielder Chavez Young became the first player to steal home at the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

There was also 20 year old Harry Ford’s three run homer in the fourth to left field which lifted hopes of a Regensburg-style comeback.

It was not to be but the inspiration is still strong.

Back at home fans were crammed into pubs and clubs to watch the game live at the Watch Parties, urging GB on to succeed and that support will continue not just for the duration of this WBC but well into the future.

Most importantly, the different age groups in the GB programme can only be inspired to take the next steps.

As well as the heroics of Regensburg, GB youth teams were part of the best summer ever in 2022. The U12s, U15s and U18s all performed well on the European stage last year.

Many younger GB players have made the trip to Phoenix to learn and to enjoy being part of this world wide festival of baseball.

Without doubt British fans have been welcomed with open arms here. Ian Blease and J Bax witnessed the Mexico victory over the US and couldn’t believe the atmosphere.

Mexican fans were also at the Canada game and eager to take photos with the Brits. There are no language barriers here.

The Canadian federation invited BBF members to swap ideas and learn how both countries go about organising and developing the game.

Next up is Colombia and we can’t wait to meet the fans from the land of a thousand rhythms.

#Let’s Go GB

Richard Evans