Team Italy manager Francisco Cervelli is prepared to utilize a full bullpen game in the World Baseball Classic finals should his team advance to face Team USA, according to @JeffPassan.
The strategic shift comes as Team USA is expected to deploy major league right-handers Aaron Nola and Michael Lorenzen in tonight's tournament action. While Nola and Lorenzen are marquee components of the American roster, their usage tonight would likely make them unavailable for a potential championship matchup against the Italians later this week.
For Italy, the current stage of the tournament has prompted an "all-hands-on-deck" mentality. Cervelli appears committed to an aggressive pitching management style to navigate the final rounds of the WBC. By planning a bullpen game for the finals, Italy aims to maximize their roster depth and matchups against a star-studded American lineup.
The Italians are currently focused on their immediate path to the final, with tonight's pitching developments across the bracket significantly impacting their championship outlook. Per sources, the team is weighing all possibilities as they look to secure an international title and manage their staff effectively through the knockout stages.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting
