Italy has made a late change to its pitching plans for its World Baseball Classic semifinal game. According to multiple reports, Philadelphia Phillies right-hander Aaron Nola will get the start against Venezuela on Monday night, March 17, 2026, instead of the previously expected Michael Lorenzen.
The decision represents a significant strategic shift for Team Italy as it prepares for its first-ever WBC semifinal appearance. The team, managed by Mike Piazza, is coming off a dramatic quarterfinal victory over Japan.
Aaron Nola, a former All-Star, brings considerable experience to the mound for the crucial game. The Venezuelan squad, featuring stars like Ronald Acuña Jr., presents a formidable offensive challenge. The winner will advance to the championship game against either the United States or the Dominican Republic.
The game is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET at loanDepot park in Miami, Florida. The reason for the switch from Lorenzen to Nola has not been officially disclosed by the Italian team's management.
