J.T. Realmuto Named to World Baseball Classic 2023 Team USA Roster

Originally posted on Philly Sports Network
By Shaun Nestor | Last updated 8/9/22

The best catcher in baseball will officially don the red, white, and blue in 2023 as he was announced to have joined Team USA for the 2023 World Baseball Classic on Tuesday. J.T. Realmuto, 31, has officially earned his first nod onto the Team USA roster which will look to defend its 2017 world championship title.

J.T. Realmuto will join Team USA for the 2023 World Baseball Classic pic.twitter.com/nzyhGySkAP
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) August 9, 2022

J.T. Realmuto will represent the Phils on a global stage

The Phillies’ lone representative on the 2017 championship roster was none other than Pat Neshek. In 2017, Neshek pitched for an incredible 1.12 ERA as a standout member of the Phillies’ bullpen during the dark ages.

There is not a catcher more worthy of the honor than J.T. Realmuto. A three-time All-Star and Silver Slugger, Realmuto provides consistent offensive production from the least offensively potent position on the diamond at catcher. Additionally, his abilities behind the backstop not only puts fear into the eyes of every baserunner but also stands underrated for his ability to frame pitches.

Phillies FanGraphs WAR leaders:

1. Aaron Nola — 4 (20th in MLB)
2. J.T. Realmuto — 3.6 (25)
3. Zack Wheeler — 3.4 (32)
4. Bryce Harper — 2.7 (59)
5. Rhys Hoskins — 2.5 (76)
6. Kyle Schwarber — 1.7
7. Ranger Suarez — 1.5
8. Alec Bohm — 1.4
— Destiny Lugardo (@destiny_lugardo) August 8, 2022