On the third day of the 2026 World Baseball Classic, Mexico fell in a close game against the United States 5-3. The American team took the victory, but the spotlight shifted to an exchange between Randy Arozarena and Cal Raleigh at Daikin Park in Houston, Texas. The Mexican player reacted with resentment after the American catcher refused to shake his hand. During his first at-bat, Randy Arozarena extended his hand to Cal Raleigh to greet him. Both players are teammates on the Seattle Mariners. However, the catcher representing the United States refused to shake the Mexican's hand. These images were widely shared on social media. Some versions explain that Cal Raleigh refused to shake his teammate to avoid coating his throwing arm with some resin or substance that would impair his throwing ability. Other versions claim that Raleigh's reaction was simply a matter of focus and concentration, nothing personal. However, Randy Arozarena did not take Cal Raleigh's attitude very well. The Mexican baseball player revealed that he has a very different relationship with Raleigh's parents. Arozarena sent his teammate a message in a 'Mexican and Cuban' style.

“Two days ago I was able to see them at the hotel (Raleigh's parents) and they came to greet me. They gave me a hug and were very proud to see me again (…) go home, damn it, to the Mexicans, go home, damn it… and in English. The 'good to see you' that he told me to shove it up my ass,” said Arozarena. The last part of his statement was directed at the Australian-born player.

No cordiality in the World Baseball Classic

This is not the first episode of a lack of “manners” in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. A couple of days ago something similar happened in the game between the Czech Republic and Australia. Milan Prokhop approached home plate to greet Robbie Perkins. However, the Australian catcher refused the greeting.