Mark DeRosa's mismanagement of Team USA's roster at the 2026 World Baseball Classic may have cost the team, which was defeated by Italy 8-0 in their final match on Tuesday night. Despite promising to rest some key players in advance of the knockout round, the team had not yet clinched its place in the quarterfinals. DeRose appeared on MLB Network and claimed he had "misspoke" during an interview. The team's lineup was without several key players, including Byron Buxton, Cal Raleigh, Bryce Harper, and Alex Bregman, was unable to compete due to Italy's strong 8-9 lead. If Italy defeats Mexico, the US will be the runners-up in Pool B and has a tougher path to the championship.