Trump jokes, 'Want to become the 51st state?' after the Venezuelan baseball team makes history by reaching the WBC final.
On 18 March 2026, attention immediately shifted from the baseball victory when U.S. President Donald Trump posted a provocative message questioning the annexation of Venezuela as a new American state following the World Baseball Classic (WBC) semifinal game.
On Monday night, 16 March 2026, at loanDepot Park in Miami, the Venezuelan national team faced Italy, who had been undefeated throughout the tournament. Although Venezuela trailed for most of the game, the turning point came in the seventh inning when Ronald Acuña Jr. hit a crucial infield single to tie the game 2-2. Miguel García and Luis Arraez then scored, leading the team to a 4-2 victory and advancing Venezuela to the final for the first time in its history.
However, this achievement was overshadowed by Trump's post on Truth Social around 11:15 p.m. on 16 March. After watching the game, Trump stated:
"Wow! Venezuela defeated Italy 4-2 in the WBC semifinals (baseball!). Their form is excellent. Good things keep happening in Venezuela lately! I really wonder what 'magic' is behind this success? Maybe they should just become our 51st state... Anyone agree?"
Analysts believe Trump's words are not a joke but a signal on three political levels:
Absolute control: After the U.S. arrested former President Nicolás Maduro and brought him to trial in early 2026, Venezuela is now entirely under Washington's influence.
Oil wealth: Trump has never hidden his desire for Venezuela's "oil," once saying, "We will rebuild this country profitably. We will extract the oil."
Territorial expansion policy: This is not the first time Trump has mentioned a 51st state; he previously considered annexing Canada and buying Greenland. Venezuela has thus become the latest target on his "dream territories" list.
The final showdown: U.S. vs. Venezuela
The WBC final on the night of 17 March 2026 will feature a clash between the United States and Venezuela amid a strange atmosphere. U.S. leader Trump seems to be cheering for the rival Venezuelan team, viewing them as already his "51st state."
For Venezuelans, the home run in Miami represents national pride, but for Trump, it may be just an excuse to advance his ambitions for power and the vast oil resources he seeks to control overnight.