Padres News: Manny Machado Honored With Latin-American ‘Presidential Sash’ In WBC
One of the greatest honors an athlete can ever be given in professional sports is the opportunity to play the sport that they love while also wearing their country's name across their chest in the process. It is why events like the Olympics, World Cup, and FIBA tournament are so respected around the world. Right now, it is baseball's turn and we have a slew of Padres taking part in the World Baseball Classic.
Manny Machado, coming off of his historic contract extensions, is hitting the field with his Dominican Republican teammates and looking to bring the country their first WBC title since 2013. They are currently 2-1 behind some spectacular play from Machado and look to grab another win today against Puerto Rico.
Machado has been successful behind the plate as of late as he connected on back-to-back home runs in their last two wins. His squad won 6-1 and he was gifted a "Presidential Sash' by his teammates following his home run.
The sash given to the star third baseman is a powerful symbol in Latin America and only worn by those with a lot of power. It is meant to symbolize the leader of a group, bring good luck, and represent the nation's flag.
Much like he is for San Diego, Machado is definitely one of the vocal leaders on the Dominican Republic roster. He is one of the more-experienced players and is just happy to be participating. In an interview with Juan Toribio of the MLB, he revealed that he is having a great time so far.
"Every time I wear this uniform, I feel happy to represent my country," said Machado. "No matter against whom, I'm always out there enjoying every time, every second. That's the way I like to play because you never know when this will happen again. We got the victory that we needed, but I'm just trying to enjoy every game."
Great things usually follow when you are simply having a good time and not thinking too much. If Machado is able to lead this squad to another title, a stash will just be the beginning of gifts he is given by the country !
