WBC final predictions and what you need to know

What's at stake Tuesday night in the World Baseball Classic final between the United States and Japan at Miami's LoanDepot Park?

Oh, just global baseball bragging rights for at least the next three years.

It's the matchup that most baseball fans have been not-so-secretly hoping for throughout the tournament — and it's finally here, for the WBC trophy. Now all that's left to find out is whether the defending champs, Team USA, repeat — or Japan wins its third WBC title after eliminating Mexico in a dramatic semifinal.

We asked our team of baseball experts to make their picks, break down the two finalists and share their favorite highlight from what has been an earth-shaking WBC tournament so far.

First pitch: 7 p.m.

Japan (6-0 in 2023 WBC) Starting pitcher: Shota Imanaga

USA (5-1 in 2023 WBC) Starting pitcher: TBD

Why the U.S. can win: Because that lineup is devastating, particularly when it goes back-to-back-to-back with Trea Turner, Betts and Mike Trout in the Nos. 9, 1 and 2 spots. That's three of the most complete offensive players in the sport, capable of beating teams with their speed, power and on-base ability. And Turner, who has homered three times in his last two games, is especially hot right now. — Alden Gonzalez

What can stop it: For as deep and talented as Team USA's position player group is, the pitching staff seems a bit vulnerable, particularly the first 21 outs, before Devin Williams and Ryan Pressly can factor into the game. Performance from the middle relievers — a group consisting of Adam Ottavino, David Bednar, Kendall Graveman and Daniel Bard, the latter of whom suffered noticeable command issues in his last appearance — will be critical. — Gonzalez

Player to watch: Trout. The all-world outfielder