Mark DeRosa Reveals Jack Hughes Sent Team USA a 'Fire-Up' Message Ahead of Canada Game in WBC

Olympic gold medalist Jack Hughes delivered a "fire-up" message to Team USA ahead of Thursday's quarterfinal game against Canada in the World Baseball Classic.

Manager Mark DeRosa said his players may also wear some U.S. hockey jerseys prior to the first pitch:

The USA pulled off a double over Canada in hockey at the 2026 Winter Olympics, winning the finals by identical 2-1 scores in overtime. A lot of the stars from the men's and women's teams became household names as a result.

Perhaps Hughes' motivational words can put Team USA in the right frame of mind for Thursday.

While a medal isn't yet on the line, the stakes for DeRosa and his players couldn't be much higher.

Thanks to an 8-6 loss to Italy, the United States faced elimination on Wednesday night. The Americans would've been sent packing if Mexico had beaten Italy while bringing four or fewer runs home.

The Italians came out on top 9-1 instead, allowing the Americans to advance to the knockout stages.

If Team USA turns around and crashes out against Canada, a lot of the handwringing from recent days will resume. There's simply no excuse for the U.S. not to reach another final when it has one of the most talent-laden rosters in the tournament.

That's probably a message DeRosa will be hammering home in the clubhouse.