Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuña Jr. is no stranger to big moments in big games. However, he is about to embark on the biggest game of his baseball career.
The World Baseball Classic has been a roller coaster of fun this year. There have been surprise upsets and dominant performances. Team Venezuela has never appeared in a final since the tournament's inception.
However, after taking down the juggernaut that is Japan, Venezuela found itself in a position to make it to the final against Team USA. They had a tough challenge, facing an undefeated Team Italy that seemed poised to go all the way.
What transpired was one of the most emotional and exciting games that baseball fans will ever see.
Ronald Acuña Jr. had all of the feels ahead of Venezuela's comeback win over Italy in the World Baseball Classic
Venezuela was running out of time as it was down 2-1 in the seventh inning with everything on the line. They had just escaped a bases-loaded jam in the bottom of the sixth inning, and the momentum clearly swung to the Venezuelan dugout.
Acuña did his best Forrest Gump impression when he hit a game-tying RBI single in the seventh inning with two outs. He almost ran all the way to the foul pole. His cousin, Maikel Garcia, immediately followed that with a go-ahead RBI single. Luis Arraez added a third run that inning with an RBI single of his own. They went on to win the game 4-2, advancing to the final for the first time.
Being a part of history for his country clearly had a major impact on the former NL MVP.
It was clearly an emotional moment for the players on the field. Acuña wasn't immune to this, as he was seen wiping away tears while he was on defense during the ninth inning.
An unbelievable moment for Ronald Acuña Jr. and Team Venezuela ❤️ pic.twitter.com/3wJT6JrPV0
— MLB (@MLB) March 17, 2026
A fan shared additional footage online of Acuña crying and working through his emotions. This accomplishment is something he is very proud of, and he, along with his teammates, probably feels the weight of a nation on their shoulders.
This tournament continues to be a great thing for baseball fans and players alike. It has produced some of the most exciting games and moments. Not only has Team Venezuela made it to the WBC finals, but they will also represent their country in the 2028 Olympics for the first time.
That would be a lot for anyone to feel in that situation. He's probably dreamt of this moment his entire life. They now have the chance to be crowned as champions of the world with a win over Team USA on Tuesday night.
The final takes place at 8 p.m. EST, and fans can view the game on FOX. Fans in attendance in Miami will likely experience one of the most electric atmospheres in baseball history.