A controversy arose over a refusal to shake hands at the World Baseball Classic (WBC).
Multiple U.S. media outlets reported on the 11th (Korean time) that Mexico outfielder Randy Arozarena expressed strong displeasure toward U.S. catcher Cal Raleigh (29).
The scene in question came during the U.S.-Mexico game on the 10th. Before Arozarena's first plate appearance in the first inning, near home plate he extended his hand to Raleigh to shake hands, but Raleigh did not respond. The moment drew extra attention because Arozarena and Raleigh both play together for the Major League Baseball Seattle Mariners.
After the game Arozarena told Mexican reporters in Spanish, "He should thank god because he has great, well-mannered parents." He then criticized Raleigh, who refused to shake hands, using strong expressions such as "get lost" and "go to hell."
He was also reported to have said in English, "Tell him to shove any 'nice to meet you' type of stuff up his ass."
Raleigh met with reporters on the 10th and said, "Emotions just got a little heated," explaining, "There is no definite conflict between us."
He said, "I don't consider this a big deal. I imagine he doesn't either," and emphasized, "It's actually unfortunate that this is becoming a topic. I like Randy and I have a lot of respect for the Mexico national team."
He added, "I have a responsibility to focus on the game for my teammates and country. There is no malice and no lingering grudge. Who the opponent is does not matter."
Meanwhile, this is the second time Arozarena has had his handshake refused by a U.S. catcher at the WBC. In the 2023 tournament, U.S. catcher Will Smith also refused to shake Arozarena's hand before his first plate appearance in the first inning.
There was another case of a "refusal to shake hands" in this tournament. In a game held in Tokyo, Japan, Australia catcher Robbie Perkins refused to shake hands with Czech leadoff hitter Milan Prokop. Perkins explained, "It was out of competitiveness."
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