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World Baseball Classic 2017: USA starter Marcus Stroman motivated by Puerto Rico fans

World Baseball Classic 2017: USA starter Marcus Stroman motivated by Puerto Rico fans

If Marcus Stroman, who could've been pitching for Puerto Rico in this World Baseball Classic, needed any motivation when he pitches against Puerto Rico on Wednesday night, baseball fans from his mother's native country gave it to him.

“I know a lot of people have been saying bad things to her, going through the process, on social media,” Stroman told Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthalafter the United States'2-1 victory over Japan in Tuesday’s semifinal.

“That’s my mother. I stand by her always. She supports me through everything. I don’t respect some of the comments that were made toward my mother.”

Will that fuel him in Wednesday's championship game?

“I’m really excited to pitch. I"m ready to go,” he said, game face already in place for Wednesday's 9 p.m. ET final at Dodger Stadium (MLB Network).

Stroman, who was born in Medford, N.Y., originally said in 2013 that he would pitch for Puerto Rico, where his mother, Adlin Auffant, was born. He changed his mind last December — a decision he says his mother supported.

Now, he'll get the start afterU.S. manager Jim Leyland assessed his options and decided togo with the Blue Jays right-hander.

“He deserves the ball,” Leyland said. “He’s going to get it.”

It will be Stroman's second start against Puerto Rico in the past week. He was on the losing end of a 6-5 loss Fridayin San Diego in championship round pool play. He pitched doggedly into the fifth inningafter surrendering four first-inning runs.

Will he carrythat tough first inning to the mound with him Wednesday?

“Not at all,” said Stroman, who instead is eager to step into a very big moment in his baseball career.

“I can’t wait,” he said. “I can’t wait to get out there."