Pasquantino is in a slump at the World Baseball Classic.
Kansas City Royals star Vinnie Pasquantino is one of the leaders of Team Italy at the World Baseball Classic. Italy shockingly upset Team USA on Tuesday night, and one would imagine that Pasquantino would have been one of the primary reasons behind such an upset coming to fruition. However, Pasquantino has yet to record a hit through three games at the WBC.
He is 0-12 so far in the tournament. The Royals first baseman has recorded three walks and a run scored with Italy, and he's also only struck out twice. Additionally, Pasquantino is playing respectable defense at first base and keeping things loose in the dugout by serving espresso shots to every player who hits a home run.
Italy is 3-0 and can clinch a spot in the next round of the WBC on Wednesday. If Team Italy is going to make a serious run at a championship, though, they will need Pasquantino to find his rhythm at the plate. The same can be said for the Royals, who will need Pasquantino to have a big year.
Vinnie Pasquantino Will Bounce Back
Is Pasquantino swinging the bat well at the moment? No, but there is no reason to panic.
Fans sometimes overreact to players' struggles during spring training. Pasquantino is simply having a slow start to the spring. His slump is just magnified since he is participating in the World Baseball Classic. He is going to bounce back sooner rather than later.
In 2025, the power-hitting first baseman slashed .264/.323/.475 across 160 games played with Kansas City. He also set career-highs in home runs (32), RBI (113) and doubles (33). The Royals would surely prefer to see him reach base on a more consistent basis, but it was an overall productive year for Pasquantino.
He also has a proven track record. In 2024, Pasquantino hit 19 home runs and recorded 97 RBI in 131 games played.
The Royals know who Pasquantino is. He has continued to take steps forward and may be on the verge of an All-Star season. In all likelihood, most fans are probably still confident in the slugger. If any fans are worried, though, there is no reason to panic despite Pasquantino's struggles at the WBC.
Pasquantino and Team Italy will play Team Mexico on Wednesday night at 7 PM EST in what projects to be a competitive matchup. Perhaps Pasquantino will break out of his slump in the game.