Milwaukee Brewers second baseman Brice Turang is still processing what it means to wear red, white, and blue on baseball’s global stage.

In a story reported by Ayako Oikawa of MLB.com, Turang described the emotions that followed the phone call informing him he had been selected to represent the United States in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.

“When I got the call, I was so excited,” Turang said.

Although he was officially named to the roster in early December, much of his interaction with Team USA has come through a group chat with future teammates. The reality of the opportunity, he admitted, still feels slightly surreal.

“Honestly, it still doesn’t totally feel real,” Turang said. “I know I’m going, but I think it’ll really hit me when I get there, and I’ll be like, ‘Wow, this is actually happening.’ It’s really cool. I'm super excited for it."

Turang’s appreciation for the tournament dates back to 2017, when Team USA captured its first title with an 8–0 win over Puerto Rico at Dodger Stadium.

“That's about when I started paying attention," Turang said. "I've always heard of the tournament and kind of knew it's around, but I never knew what it was until I started getting older, and then I really realized ... it's really cool. It's very competitive, for sure.”

Baseball runs deep in Turang’s family. His father, Brian Turang, played professionally, and his mother, Carrie, competed at the collegiate softball level.

Turang himself represented the United States as a teenager, earning international medals before being drafted by Milwaukee out of high school.

He debuted in the majors at 23 and has since solidified himself as the Brewers’ everyday second baseman.

The 26-year-old is coming off a standout season that included a National League Gold Glove Award and notable offensive strides. Now, he prepares for his first experience with the senior national team.

“Yeah, it means a lot to represent your country that you love and care about, and you want to win for your country. It really does mean a lot,” Turang said. “It's where the United States gets together… So it's really cool. I'm really excited for it.”

Beyond the competition, Turang is eager to learn from a clubhouse filled with stars.

“I’m really excited to learn from those guys and then compete against other countries. It’s going to be a great experience,” he said. “There’s not one specific person. I just want to pick everyone’s brain a little bit… Sometimes it’s not even about asking. It’s about watching how they prepare.”

Brewers manager Pat Murphy supports the experience, emphasizing its developmental value.

“I trust our players’ ability,” Murphy said. “They’ll represent their countries, handle that responsibility, and come back.”

For Turang, the mission is simple.

“I’m just going to do whatever the situation calls for, whatever the team needs,” he said. “For me, it's just to go out and play the game hard, like I always do.”

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