Is Lars Nootbaar primed to be the 2023 WBC breakout star? 3 reasons why the St. Louis Cardinals' outfielder can win the MVP title

Lars Nootbaar, the young outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, has the potential to be a breakout star in the upcoming 2023 World Baseball Classic.

With his impressive skills and abilities, there are three key reasons why Nootbaar could very well be the MVP of the tournament.

#1. Lars Nootbaar has been a rising star in the minor leagues

Nootbar has shown exceptional hitting ability and strong defensive skills. In his first full minor league season in 2019, he played 101 games between three clubs, batted .264 with seven home runs and 38 RBIs. His on-field performance remained consistent following his promotion to the major leagues in June 2021.

#2. Lars Nootbaar's versatility could be a significant asset to Team Japan

Nootbar has played all three outfield positions and has also played first base and designated hitter, giving his team flexibility in their lineup. His defensive skills are strong, making him a reliable asset on the field.

#3. Lars Nootbaar has shown that he he fits in comfortably in the Japanese setup

His performances on the field during their victory against China were very impressive, winning the respect of fans and teammates alike. Moreover, the whole squad looks like they are having fun playing their game and Nootbaar is always at the center of it all.

Lars Nootbaar captures Japanese hearts with his skills and celebrations

Despite being the only player on the team who was not born in Japan, Nootbaar has taken the hearts of Japanese fans by storm.

His performances in their opening game were excellent. He showed some very good batting skills with a couple of hits and his outrageous fielding was on display for everyone to see. His contributions to the team's morale can be seen too, with his trademark "pepper grinder" celebration becoming a common sight in the Japanese dugout.

World Baseball Classic Pool B: Korea v Japan

There are several reasons why Nootbaar could be the breakout star and potential MVP of the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

His impressive hitting ability, defensive versatility, and ability to perform under pressure make him an exciting player to watch. As he continues to develop and gain experience at the professional level, Nootbaar has the potential to become a key player for the St. Louis Cardinals and a rising star in MLB.