USA's Realmuto happy to be at WBC: 'So much fun'

United States catcher J.T. Realmuto is glad he decided to participate in the World Baseball Classic.

After Team USA's thrilling quarterfinals victory over Venezuela on Saturday, Realmuto reflected on his experience representing his country.

"So much pride on the line. So much fun," Realmuto said, according to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal. "It was clear to both teams how much that game meant."

A number of MLB stars opted to remain with their clubs at spring training instead of participating in the tournament. Realmuto said he has a hard time understanding that line of thinking.

"I can't believe anybody would rather stay in spring training than play in a game like that," Realmuto said.

Realmuto has put together a strong performance for Team USA. The 32-year-old has five hits in eight at-bats with a pair of doubles and two RBIs over his three appearances.

The United States will look to advance to the finals for the second straight Classic when it takes on Cuba in the semifinals on Sunday night in Miami.