David Wright is absolutely killing it in the 2013 World Baseball Classic leading Team USA in RBI, batting average and is easily the most valuable American in the tournament right now. Wright is bringing the offense and playing solid defense as well. When players get hot, simply calling them by their name isn't enough and this is why Wright has been called "Captain America."
He's the face of a franchise. He got paid big money. Wright might as well be a hero. He's faithful to a struggling franchise and gives war veterans (Sgt. Felix Perez) access to watch the games where fans can watch the third baseman play live. His influence extends beyond baseball, but right now, Wright's contributions are going far on the field.
If the Dominicans want a tip as they get ready to play the U.S. it will be not to pitch to "Captain America" with the bases loaded. So far, nine of his 10 runs have been driven in from bases loaded opportunities. He smacked a grand slam against Italy on Saturday to give Team USA the victory. Wright had five RBI on Tuesday against Puerto Rico and they were all with the bases loaded. He hit into a force out that drove in a run, got an RBI-single and then smacked a base clearing double to right center.
Captain America has a shield and Wright's shield has been his bat. In four games at the 2013 WBC, Wright is hitting .438. That's seven hits in 18 at bats. He's scored four runs, tying him for the team-high with Ryan Braun. He's got 10 RBI and is the only American player with a home run.
While Wright loves the Captain America nickname, he's more concerned about the U.S. team winning. The guys in the roster seem to get it, they don't want to disappoint their teammates or country as the USA has struggled in the tournament.
The U.S. will face the Dominican Republic on Thursday as the winner will be sitting down and awaiting an opponent in the semifinals.
