Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Yoan Moncada Makes 2023 All-World Baseball Classic Team

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Jonnie Nonnie | Last updated 3/22/23

The White Sox third baseman's 1.258 OPS was tied for 15th among all hitters in the tournament.

For the first time ever, MLB players were allowed to suit up for Team Cuba in the World Baseball Classic this year. Chicago White Sox stars Yoan Moncada and Luis Robert Jr. took the opportunity to represent their home country, and they did so with great pride. Moncada especially stood out, and his efforts resulted in a selection to the 2023 All-World Baseball Classic team.

In 27 plate appearances across six games, Moncada slashed .435/.519/.739 with four doubles, one home run, five RBIs, four runs scored, and four walks. The 27-year-old's 1.258 OPS was tied for 15th among all hitters in the tournament.

After Team Cuba dropped its first two games of pool play, it was in danger of an early exit. However, Moncada stepped up with a pair of monster games to help Cuba advance to the single-elimination stage of the event.

First, he broke out with a three-hit, 4-RBI game against Panama.

Moncada then wrapped up pool play by going 3-for-4 with a double, a home run, and two runs scored against Chinese Taipei.

In the quarterfinals against Australia, the White Sox third baseman delivered again by going 2-for-2 with a double, a pair of walks, and a run scored.

Even as Cuba was eliminated by Team USA in a semifinal blowout, Moncada recorded two more hits, including a double, and a run scored. He could have further added to his stats, too, but he suffered a bruised rib late in the game that caused him to miss out on one final plate appearance.

The 2023 All-World Baseball Classic team consisted of one player at each field position, one DH, and three pitchers. Among a third base group that included the likes of Team USA star Nolan Arenado, Yoan Moncada stood out enough to earn an all-tournament team selection.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: