Prior to the final at the 2017 World Baseball Classic MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and MLBPA head Tony Clark held a joint press conference to recap the tournament. Both showed during the press conference that they are very happy with this year’s event and they are both anticipating a 2021 World Baseball Classic.
Rob Manfred:
“I can’t tell you how pleased I am, and I’m sure Tony feels the same way, about the way this event has gone. I was thinking about it on the way over here. You have rosters literally overflowing with the best players in the world. We’ve had crowds that not only were record crowds but had passion that — it’s hard to think where you saw something that good the last time. I mean, just really amazing.”
Tony Clark:
“As I talked to the guys that are playing now and even the guys that have played before, you truly appreciate the opportunity you have to represent your country on this stage at this time for our game, in an effort to continue to move our game forward and achieve something that very few have had an opportunity to achieve on behalf of your country. It’s been an exciting ride, all culminating tonight.”
Both were also asked about MLB’s participation in the 2020 Olympics, but wouldn’t comment if MLB players will be allowed to play, only confirming that there are preliminary conversations.