While the 2020 Tokyo Olympics have come and gone, the lasting impression of Israel’s debut in baseball tells the story of triumph for Jews around the world. 

In a talented pool of six countries – including powerhouse teams from the United States, Japan, and South Korea – the Israeli national team finished just one win away from competing in a medal game for baseball. The team also made Israeli history as its first team to represent the country in an Olympic team-sport format in over 40 years.

The team, previously ranked only 41st in the world, mostly comprised American-born Jewish athletes. Among the team members are former major leaguers, current minor league players, and Israeli-born players. 

The roster includes two World Series champions, Ryan Lavarnway and Ian Kinsler, as well as former MLB all-stars and Gold Glove Award winners. In order to join the five players born in Israel, 19 out of the 25 foreign-born athletes were required to make aliyah to compete on behalf of Israel.

After going winless in the opening round games against South Korea on July 29th, losing 6-5, and the United States the next day, losing 8-1, the Israeli squad rebounded and defeated Mexico in a crucial win-or-go-home game. However, after a nail-biting 7-6 loss against the Dominican Republic, the Israelis were eliminated and sent home from Tokyo.

Although the final tournament results did not go exactly as Israel’s fans had anticipated, the unlikely success found by Team Israel has provided inspiration for Jewish baseball fans around the world. “As both a Jew and a baseball player, watching Team Israel play on behalf of my homeland makes me proud to represent YULA every time I take the field,” said AJ Tabak (‘22), captain of the YULA Varsity Baseball Team.

While the Israeli National Baseball team may have fallen short in their gold medal aspirations, the team will continue to work to improve their roster and prepare for the next challenge ahead: the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.