USA Baseball has announced that Mike Scioscia will return as manager for Team USA at the upcoming WBSC Premier12 tournament, scheduled to take place from November 9 to 24, 2024. Scioscia, who previously led the team to a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the role.
Scioscia, a former World Series champion as both a player and manager, has been with the USA men’s national baseball team since 2021. Under his guidance, the team achieved a perfect 4-0 record during the WBSC Baseball Americas Olympic Qualifier, securing their spot at the Tokyo Olympics. There, they finished as runners-up, earning the USA’s second silver medal in Olympic baseball history.
Expressing his excitement about the upcoming tournament, Scioscia said, “I am honored and proud to have the opportunity to put the Team USA uniform on again. I am looking forward to being back in the dugout as we put all of our efforts into winning a gold medal at the Premier12 tournament.”
Paul Seiler, USA Baseball Executive Director, praised Scioscia’s return, noting his proven track record and ability to connect with the team. “Mike has a proven track record as a big-league manager and in international competition,” Seiler said. “His dedication and leadership will continue to make a significant impact on our players, coaches, and staff.”
The WBSC Premier12 will feature the top 12 nations in the WBSC/KONAMI Men’s Baseball World Ranking. Team USA, part of Group A, will compete against Mexico, the Netherlands, Panama, Puerto Rico, and Venezuela in the Opening Round, with games taking place in Guadalajara and Tepic, Mexico. Group B, featuring teams like Australia, Cuba, and Japan, will play in Taipei City, Taiwan.
Team USA aims to improve on their past performances at the Premier12, where they finished second in 2015 and fourth in 2019. USA Baseball will announce the full coaching staff and roster for the Premier12 tournament later this year.
