Diehard Yankees fans have obvious WBC rooting interest beyond Team USA

The New York Yankees will be well-represented at the upcoming World Baseball Classic (even though they haven't signed any Japanese talent in, uh, years). It'll be impossible to miss Aaron Judge's starring role as Captain America, and dynasty anchor Andy Pettitte will be his Team USA pitching coach. Hell, even Ryan Yarbrough got tapped for a surprise appearance in the red, white, and blue, likely handing the ball to David Bednar with a lead.

But beyond Team USA's borders, there's another Yankees-flavored squad that should capture your attention in the early rounds: Team Italy.

In 2025, Francisco Cervelli was named Italy's manager for the upcoming classic after serving on the roster in both 2009 (as a Yankees backup) and 2017 (after having spread his wings a bit in Pittsburgh). As it turns out, he felt most comfortable bringing the Yankees' 2009 series-winning starting catcher along for the ride.

Jorge Posada will serve as Cervelli's assistant hitting coach, flanked on the staff by other former Yankees Dave Righetti (pitching coach) and Sal Fasano (bullpen coach). Posada is a Puerto Rican native, but clearly found value in accompanying Cervelli on his journey (and don't think certain Yankee fans won't have their eyes on how he performs in the dugout).

Familiar Yankees playing surprising roles in 2026 World Baseball Classic

In addition to the stacked coaching staff of Team Italia, keep an eye out for familiar faces in somewhat surprising places. Austin Wells will be the Dominican Republic's primary catcher, due to heritage on his mother's side, while Bahamian native Jazz Chisholm Jr. will suit up for Great Britain in what can technically be called a jersey. His Brits will be the only team in the tournament to face Team USA ace Tarik Skubal. Good luck with all that.

Unfortunately, there's no way for Yankee fans to root for Team Italy unfettered; they stuck Posada, Cervelli and Co. in the same pool as Team USA, too. The Americans will start their tournament run in Houston, facing off with Italy, Brazil, Chisholm's Great Britain club, and Mexico. Hopefully, if Team USA does falter, there's at least some sort of silver lining here. Maybe Posada and Cervelli's lineup ingenuity and motivational tactics will be directly responsible. Or maybe it's the Sunday sauce.