For the first time ever, Venezuela is the World Baseball Classic champion.  Venezuela survived a ...

<p>For the first time ever, Venezuela is the World Baseball Classic champion.</p><p>Venezuela survived a U.S. comeback to win 3-2 in Tuesday's WBC final at loanDepot Park. Bryce Harper tied the game with a home run in the eighth inning, but Eugenio Suárez answered with a <a href="https://www.x.com/MLBONFOX/status/2034096924148834497">go-ahead RBI double</a> in the top of the ninth that plated the tournament-winning run.</p><p>"I got that changeup right there, put my best swing on it, and thank God I got the double," Suárez told MLB Network. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Closer Daniel Palencia then set the Americans down in order, striking out Roman Anthony to start the celebration in Caracas and beyond.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="es" dir="ltr">TEAM VENEZUELA 🇻🇪<br>CHAMPS 🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WORLDBASEBALLCLASSIC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WORLDBASEBALLCLASSIC</a> <a href="https://t.co/1hDTJWcI5V">pic.twitter.com/1hDTJWcI5V</a></p>— World Baseball Classic (@WBCBaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/WBCBaseball/status/2034101615397937441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>This win marks Venezuela's first major international baseball tournament victory since claiming gold at the 1959 Pan-Am Games.</p><p>Six Venezuelan pitchers limited the vaunted American offense to just three hits and six baserunners while striking out 10. Team USA didn't get a runner past second base until Harper's tying homer off Andrés Machado in the eighth.</p><p>Maikel Garcia opened the scoring for Venezuela with an RBI sacrifice fly in the top of the third. Wilyer Abreu continued his monster tournament by crushing a solo homer off USA starter Nolan McLean, who struck out four and allowed the two runs in 4 2/3 innings.</p><p>"We were not supposed to be here, people don't believe in us," Garcia said. "But we believe in each other and we did a job."</p><p>He added: "We showed the people who Venezuela is. Next time they make a ranking, Venezuela is the No. 1."</p><p>Venezuelan starter Eduardo Rodriguez was brilliant, surrendering one hit while tallying four strikeouts over 4 1/3 innings before yielding to the bullpen.</p><p>"This is the greatest moment I've ever got on the mound pitching," Rodriguez said. "Pitching like that in front of almost our home crowd, the whole of Venezuela was here. ... I can't even tell you how I feel right now."</p><p>For Team USA, the result is another crushing loss in the WBC final. The Americans dropped the 2023 championship to Japan in the same ballpark by the same 3-2 score. Team USA has won the tournament only once, in 2017.</p><p>"I'd love to get over the finish line," Mark DeRosa said when asked if he'd like to return as U.S. manager. "Not only is it two times but 3-2 both times.</p><p>"If you saw how hurting the guys are in that locker room, you'd know why. For some reason, this WBC has become a tidal wave of emotion for a lot of guys. You get them in the room representing their country, coming together for two-and-a-half weeks, the buy-in. It's infectious in there."</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 17: Salvador Perez #13 and manager Omar López #22 of Team Venezuela lift the championship trophy after defeating Team United States 3-2 at loanDepot park on March 17, 2026 in Miami, Florida.

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Venezuela claims 1st-ever WBC title in thriller over USA

Venezuela third baseman Maikel Garcia was named the 2026 World Baseball Classic Most Valuable Pla...

<p>Venezuela third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/13651" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/13651">Maikel Garcia</a> was named the 2026 World Baseball Classic Most Valuable Player after helping his team to a 3-2 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3502322" href="https://thescore.com/news/3502322">win</a> in Tuesday's final over the U.S.</p><p>Garcia hit .385/.393/.577 across the tournament, posting a team-high 10 hits along with one homer, seven RBIs, and three stolen bases while striking out just three times in 26 at-bats. He led the entire WBC in hits and recorded the game-winning RBI single in Venezuela's comeback semifinal win over Italy. Garcia also homered in his country's quarterfinal victory over Japan and had an RBI in the final.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"MVP! MVP! MVP!" 🗣️<br><br>Maikel Garcia is your 2026 WBC MVP 🇻🇪 <a href="https://t.co/FBWQkC3Yz8">pic.twitter.com/FBWQkC3Yz8</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/2034110754652340242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 26-year-old, who hails from the village of La Sabana in the Venezuelan state of Vargas, joins the Dominican Republic's Robinson Canó (2013) as the only true position players to win WBC MVP. Starting pitchers won the award in three of the five previous editions, with two-way superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> taking home the honor three years ago.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Garcia made his first All-Star team with the Kansas City Royals in 2025. The Royals signed him to a five-year, $57.5-million extension over the winter.</p><p>As the MVP, Garcia also headlined the All-WBC Team as the third baseman. He was one of three Venezuelans named to the squad, while Team USA had the most selections with four. Ohtani, meanwhile, joined Daisuke Matsuzaka, Yadier Molina, and Javier Báez as just the fourth player to be named to multiple All-WBC teams.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WBC All-Tournament Team" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Js4rG" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Js4rG/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="577" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 17: Maikel Garcia #11 of Team Venezuela poses with the MVP trophy after the 3-2 victory against Team United States at loanDepot park on March 17, 2026 in Miami, Florida.

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Venezuela's Garcia named WBC MVP, headlines All-WBC Team

The World Baseball Classic has come a long way in the 20 years since the inaugural tournament. Ye...

<p>The World Baseball Classic has come a long way in the 20 years since the inaugural tournament. Yet the question of when the best time is to stage it remains up for debate.</p><p>United States manager Mark DeRosa believes that moving the WBC from spring training to the summer would solve the problem, and get even more of the best talent to participate with fewer restrictions.</p><p>"I do think the big leaguers want to play in the Olympics and represent their country," DeRosa said before Tuesday's final against Venezuela, per <a href="https://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=216657">ASAP Sports</a>. "And yes, they would be more prepared and more dialed in, and we'd be dealing with way less restrictions and way less guidelines on the pitching if it was moved to midseason. No question about it."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>All six editions of the WBC have been held during spring training. As a result, the tournament features unique pitch-count limits designed to protect pitchers who are ramping up for the regular season. Pitchers are required to rest for one day if they throw 30 pitches in a WBC game, and four days if they cross the 50-pitch mark.</p><p>DeRosa and the other 19 national team managers also have to juggle the needs of player's MLB teams. Several star players had to miss the tournament after being denied insurance due to injuries suffered in 2025, and players that are in the tournament may be prescribed rest days or specific pitch counts.</p><p>USA closer Mason Miller was questionable for the final, though DeRosa confirmed the flamethrower's availability pregame after conferring with the San Diego Padres. Venezuela manager Omar Lopez revealed that multiple clubs asked him not to use pitchers who worked in Monday's semifinal win over Italy in Tuesday's final, according to <a href="https://x.com/BillShaikin/status/2034014094538268786">Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times</a>.</p><p>If this were July, DeRosa feels none of this would be an issue.</p><p>"The beauty of this thing is you try to honor the parent clubs and get these guys back to their parent clubs healthy, but for some reason, when you get in a room and you put USA across your chest and fill a stadium, you lose sight of that sometimes," DeRosa said. "So I think it's just passion for growing the game, the WBC, but certainly if it was moved to the middle of the season, I don't think you would have any 'no's' for competing in it."</p><p>A midseason WBC would also force MLB (and other pro leagues) to fit the tournament in by halting their regular seasons. MLB has already expressed an openness to doing that for the LA Olympics in 2028, although that would only be for a week. Running a full 20-team tournament in July would take longer, and potentially eat two weeks of the season.</p><p>Still, DeRosa is clearly hoping for these changes to take the WBC to the next level. The 51-year-old believes the tournament is officially a must-see event, especially in the United States, which has often been criticized for not fully buying in and focusing more on the MLB season.</p><p>"I was a part of it in 2009 as a player and didn't really understand what we were getting into, right? And then I was able to manage in 2023," DeRosa said. "And to see the passion, the game against Mexico, the game against Venezuela (in 2023), the (2023 final) against Japan. I credit the Latin American countries, I credit Japan, I credit the other countries for kind of forcing the United States' hand to kind of get in on this.</p><p>"There's something very powerful about playing for your country."</p>

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 15: Mark DeRosa #9 of the United States looks on before the 2026 World Baseball Classic WBC game presented by Capital One between Team USA and Team Dominican Republic at loanDepot park on Sunday, March 15, 2026 in Miami, Florida.

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DeRosa wants midseason WBC: Would be 'way less restrictions'

Venezuela is off to the World Baseball Classic final for the first time, ending Italy's Cinderell...

<p>Venezuela is off to the World Baseball Classic final for the first time, ending Italy's Cinderella run with a 4-2 win in the second WBC semifinal Monday at LoanDepot Park.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">TICKET PUNCHED 🎟️<br><br>TEAM VENEZUELA IS HEADING TO THE <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WORLDBASEBALLCLASSIC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WORLDBASEBALLCLASSIC</a> FINAL FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER! <a href="https://t.co/Ulmy4XqqVK">pic.twitter.com/Ulmy4XqqVK</a></p>— World Baseball Classic (@WBCBaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/WBCBaseball/status/2033738373769076763?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Venezuelans trailed early but mounted a three-run comeback in the seventh inning, led by RBI hits from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/13651" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/13651">Maikel Garcia</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10597" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10597">Luis Arraez</a>, to pull ahead for good.</p><p>Venezuela will face Team USA in the championship game Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET. Veteran left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4216" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4216">Eduardo Rodriguez</a> will start for the Venezuelans against Team USA youngster <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20104" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20104">Nolan McLean</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"A lot of dancing," Garcia said of the postgame celebration. "I've never been to the championship of the WBC before, and we get there and we're happy. We're excited to play tomorrow against the United States. We have to come tomorrow and play the same way we played against Japan, against Italy, and we have to show the world who Venezuela is."</p><p>Italy, playing in its first-ever WBC semifinal, got a brilliant start from Philadelphia Phillies star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4777" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4777">Aaron Nola</a>, who allowed one run over four innings of work. The Azzurri struck first on offense, taking a 2-0 lead in the third on a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17290" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17290">J.J. D'Orazio</a> bases-loaded walk and a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/19333" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/19333">Dante Nori</a> RBI force out.</p><p>But Venezuela eventually chipped away. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3362">Eugenio Suárez</a> launched a homer off Nola in the fourth to cut the deficit in half, setting the stage for the big seventh inning. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8292" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8292">Ronald Acuña Jr.</a> tied the game with an RBI single off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/4295" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/4295">Michael Lorenzen</a> - who had been scheduled to start the game, but instead followed Nola out of the bullpen - and Garcia followed with the go-ahead hit.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MAIKEL GARCIA FOR THE LEAD!<br><br>TEAM VENEZUELA IS HYPE 🇻🇪 <a href="https://t.co/IaHDzNwr3a">pic.twitter.com/IaHDzNwr3a</a></p>— World Baseball Classic (@WBCBaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/WBCBaseball/status/2033728363064361325?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Venezuelan starter Keider Montero struggled with his command in the second, and was pulled after walking D'Orazio. But the bullpen picked him up, as six Venezuela relievers combined to throw 7 2/3 shutout innings and silence the Italian bats. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/13748" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/13748">Daniel Palencia</a> struck out two in a perfect ninth to record the save.</p><p>Despite being one of the world's premier baseball nations - only the U.S. and Dominican Republic have produced more major-leaguers - Venezuela hasn't achieved much international success. The South American nation's previous best finish at the WBC was fourth place in 2009, and had never reached the Olympics until qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles games last week. Venezuela's last major international baseball win was a gold medal at the 1959 Pan-Am Games.</p><p>Awaiting them Tuesday is a U.S. team that's in its third straight WBC final, and is looking to avenge 2023's final loss to Japan. The Americans own a 3-2 advantage all-time against Venezuela in the WBC.</p><p>The final will also be a rematch of an epic quarterfinal game between Venezuela and the U.S. in Miami three years ago. In that game, the Americans came back to beat Venezuela 9-7 on Trea Turner's eighth-inning grand slam.</p><p>"Baseball gives you this kind of opportunities," Acuña said of facing the U.S. "Life is so ironic. I'm very happy to play the United States again. They are all superstars, but we have a great team as well. We are going to play our game. Let's see what happens tomorrow."</p><p>Italy, meanwhile, saw its remarkable run end in the semifinals, a result that's easily the best in the country's baseball history. The Italians were just the second European nation to reach a WBC semifinal (The Netherlands did it twice). Francisco Cervelli's team came into the semis undefeated, but managed just five hits against Venezuela, and only three after the second inning.</p><p>"We are no longer the Cinderella, and this is an important - in three years they are going to take us seriously," Cervelli said. "We have a group of young players that are going to participate in the next Classic. </p><p>"What they experienced today, they are going to take it away from the rest of their lives, a spectacular noise at the stadium, and my team was spectacular, fantastic, a group of friends, guys that support each other. I wish I could have that kind of team for 162 games."</p>

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 16: Gleyber Torres #25 of Team Venezuela celebrates with teammates after Team Venezuela defeated Team Italy in the 2026 World Baseball Classic WBC game presented by Capital One at loanDepot park on Monday, March 16, 2026 in Miami, Florida.

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Venezuela ends Italy's run, will face U.S. in WBC final

Team USA is off to the World Baseball Classic finals, eliminating the Dominican Republic with a n...

<p>Team USA is off to the World Baseball Classic finals, eliminating the Dominican Republic with a nail-biting 2-1 win in the semifinal Sunday at loanDepot Park.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16437" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16437">Mason Miller</a> struck out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12530" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12530">Geraldo Perdomo</a> on a questionable called third strike as the Dominican Republic stranded the tying run at third base to end the game.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MASON MILLER WINS THE BATTLE<br><br>TEAM USA WINS THE GAME! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldBaseballClassic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldBaseballClassic</a> <a href="https://t.co/IJCG9vjv5r">pic.twitter.com/IJCG9vjv5r</a></p>— World Baseball Classic (@WBCBaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/WBCBaseball/status/2033379153316139058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I don't want to focus on the last pitch," Dominican manager Albert Pujols said, according to <a href="https://x.com/BillShaikin/status/2033384851533975916">Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times</a>. "... I'm not going to criticize any of that. It wasn't meant to be (for us)."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12258" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12258">Gunnar Henderson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17320" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17320">Roman Anthony</a> provided all the offense Paul Skenes and five U.S. relievers would need with his <a href="https://x.com/MLBONFOX/status/2033350743642829053">fourth-inning home run</a> off Dominican reliever Gregory Soto.</p><p>It's the third consecutive WBC finals appearance for the Americans. They won the tournament in 2017 and lost a memorable championship game to Japan three years ago.</p><p>The U.S. now awaits the winner of Monday's semifinal featuring Venezuela and Italy. New York Mets rookie right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20104" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20104">Nolan McLean</a> will start the final, USA manager Mark DeRosa confirmed, according to <a href="https://x.com/DeeshaThosar/status/2033387983416528916">Deesha Thosar of Fox Sports</a>. McLean, 24, started against Italy in pool play and allowed three runs in Team USA's stunning loss to the upstart Italians.</p><p>The vaunted Dominican lineup outhit Team USA 8-7, but could only muster one run on Junior Camiero's solo shot in the second inning. The Dominicans left eight runners on base, and went 2-for-9 with runners in scoring position. Fernando Tatis Jr. ran into an inning-ending out in the third when he was thrown out by Aaron Judge while trying to take third on Ketel Marte's single.</p><p>Skenes allowed just the one run on six hits in 4 1/3 innings before yielding to Tyler Rogers, who got Juan Soto to hit into a double play and strand two runners. Rogers, Griffin Jax, David Bednar, Garrett Whitlock, and Miller combined to allow just two hits and three baserunners.</p>

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 15: Roman Anthony #3 of Team USA celebrates with teammates after hitting a solo home run in the fourth inning during the 2026 World Baseball Classic WBC game presented by Capital One between Team USA and Team Dominican Republic at loanDepot park on Sunday, March 15, 2026 in Miami, Florida.

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USA holds off Dominicans to reach 3rd straight WBC final

Venezuela claimed more than just a spot in the World Baseball Classic semifinals Saturday night. ...

<p>Venezuela claimed more than just a spot in the World Baseball Classic semifinals Saturday night. It also earned a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic baseball tournament.</p><p>The Venezuelans will be joined in the LA 2028 tournament by the Dominican Republic, which officially clinched the other Americas berth when it beat Korea in the quarterfinals Friday. The Dominicans are 5-0 in the WBC.</p><p>The WBC doubled as the Olympic qualifying tournament for teams from the Americas. The top two overall finishers from the Americas (excluding Team USA, which receives an automatic berth as the host nation) earned spots in the six-team LA 2028 tournament at Dodger Stadium.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>By defeating Japan, Venezuela ensured it would finish higher than Canada and Puerto Rico - the other two Americas teams that reached the quarterfinals - in the WBC standings. Canada held the head-to-head tiebreaker over Puerto Rico for the Olympic berth, but needed Japan to reach the semis in order to qualify over Venezuela.</p><p>This marks the first time that Venezuela has ever qualified for an Olympic baseball tournament. The Dominican Republic, meanwhile, will be making its third Olympic appearance, after finishing sixth in the 1992 Barcelona games and winning bronze at Tokyo 2020.</p><p>Although the International Olympic Committee dropped baseball and softball from the games after 2008, both sports are being brought back for LA 2028 as "optional" sports due to their popularity in the host nation. The IOC also reinstated baseball for the Tokyo games in a similar manner.</p><p>Countries from Europe, Asia, and Oceania will attempt to qualify for LA 2028 through a series of other tournaments over the next two years.</p><p>Only six teams total will qualify, and will be split into two groups of three for the tournament.</p>

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 14: Salvador Perez #13 and Angel Zerpa #61 of team Venezuela reacts to a play during the 2026 World Baseball Classic Quarterfinals game presented by Capital One between Team Venezuela and Team Japan at loanDepot park on Saturday, March 14, 2026 in Miami, Florida.

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Venezuela, Dominican Republic qualify for 2028 Olympics

Grab an espresso. Play some Bocelli. Team Italy's headed to the final four.  The Italians' Cinder...

<p>Grab an espresso. Play some Bocelli. Team Italy's headed to the final four.</p><p>The Italians' Cinderella run in the World Baseball Classic continued Saturday with an 8-6 win over Puerto Rico at Daikin Park to clinch a berth in the WBC semifinals.</p><p>Italy now travels to Miami, where it will <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3500327" href="https://thescore.com/news/3500327">play Venezuela</a> in the second semifinal Monday night. The Italians will be the designated home team for the contest, and have last at-bat.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I don't know how many people would've picked the Dominican Republic, Japan, the United States, and Italy in the final four, but we're here now," first baseman and team captain Vinnie Pasquantino said postgame. "... This is incredible, man. What a group of guys."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tried to get this fixed after the fact but I’m sorry I excluded Venezuela. Didn’t mean to that. Looking forward to watching that game we all know it should be fireworks. My bad Team Venezuela. I still love you Maikel, Sal, Luinder, and Zerpa <a href="https://t.co/bRybeOQjc2">https://t.co/bRybeOQjc2</a></p>— Vinnie Pasquantino (@VPasquantino) <a href="https://twitter.com/VPasquantino/status/2032959274729533705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Italy's offense once again started fast. After starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18619" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18619">Sam Aldegheri</a>, a Verona native, allowed a leadoff homer to Puerto Rico's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/5188" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/5188">Willi Castro</a>, the Italian bats responded by plating four runs in the bottom of the first and another four in the fourth. Catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/17290" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/17290">J.J. D'Orazio</a> drove in three, including what ended up as the winning runs on a two-RBI ground-rule double in the fourth.</p><p>Puerto Rico nearly erased a six-run deficit in the final two innings, bringing the go-ahead run to the plate in the eighth and had the tying run up in the ninth. But closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/14150" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/14150">Greg Weissert</a> shut things down with 1 2/3 innings of relief to save what is now the biggest win in Italian baseball history.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Italy’s undefeated run in the 2026 World Baseball Classic continues! 🇮🇹 <a href="https://t.co/6DOxJ3g9zV">pic.twitter.com/6DOxJ3g9zV</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/2032950564619956426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Aldegheri allowed two runs over just 1 1/3 innings, but six relievers picked him up the rest of the way. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/20674" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/20674">Dylan DeLucia</a> struck out three over four shutout innings in a bulk role, and Dan Altavila added a shutout frame of his own.</p><p>Every Italian hitter reached base at least once, and all but Sam Antonacci recorded a hit.</p><p>Italy's taken part in every WBC since the event began in 2006, but had never finished higher than seventh in the overall standings. That's all changed this year, as the Azzurri are 5-0 in the tournament after sweeping Pool A and then winning Saturday's quarterfinal.</p><p>Though the team is made up largely of Italian-Americans, its run has captured attention in Italy, a country that's produced just nine big-league players. Saturday's game was broadcast on Italian television in prime time, putting baseball on the biggest possible stage in the nation.</p><p>"Italy doesn't have the greatest development in baseball, and that's what we're trying to do right now," Pasquantino said, per <a href="https://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=216554">ASAP Sports</a>. "And if we continue to be successful with this - I mean, there was baseball being played at bistros and cafes in Italy tonight over there. That doesn't happen.</p><p>"So without the group that we have, it just doesn't happen. So we're getting eyeballs on the sport and we're bringing people together. And to me that's what the World Baseball Classic is about, is bringing people who wouldn't normally watch baseball, to get them to watch baseball."</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 14: Francisco Cervelli #29 of Italy celebrates with his team after defeating Puerto Rico during the 2026 World Baseball Classic Quarterfinals game at Daikin Park on March 14, 2026 in Houston, Texas.

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Italy beats Puerto Rico, advances to semis as dream WBC continues

There was no shortage of roster moves in the American League this winter as a number of front off...

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Handing out offseason grades for every AL team 

The Dominican Republic is off to the World Baseball Classic after crushing South Korea in a 10-0 ...

<p>The Dominican Republic is off to the World Baseball Classic after crushing South Korea in a 10-0 seven-inning mercy-rule quarterfinal win Friday.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12678" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12678">Austin Wells</a> sealed the Dominicans' spot in the semis with a three-run walk-off homer against Korea's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/20421" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/20421">Hyeong Jun So</a> in the bottom of the seventh.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">THE DR WALKS IT OFF IN THE 7TH INNING! 🇩🇴 <a href="https://t.co/xcw9AIMYQJ">pic.twitter.com/xcw9AIMYQJ</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/2032621975034908971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Albert Pujols' star-studded squad will play the winner of the United States-Canada quarterfinal on Sunday at LoanDepot Park in Miami.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Dominicans, now 5-0 in the WBC, wasted little time jumping on Korea with a three-run second inning. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16275" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16275">Junior Caminero</a> ignited the offense with an RBI double that scored <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a>, who raced around third and flew into home plate with a slide reminiscent of his dash at Yankee Stadium last October.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">VLADDY SAFE AT THE PLATE. OH MAN. 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/YjnIdisRMq">pic.twitter.com/YjnIdisRMq</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/2032593916357411196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Dominican Republic then forced Korea to use four pitchers as they scored four runs in the bottom of the third to put the game out of reach.</p><p>Dominican ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11757" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11757">Cristopher Sánchez</a> allowed just two hits while striking out eight over five shutout innings. He finished with a flourish, striking out his final four batters. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/8218" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/8218">Albert Abreu</a> followed by striking out three in a pair of flawless frames out of the bullpen.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8286" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8286">Fernando Tatis Jr.</a> also drove in a pair of runs to bring his tournament total to 11 RBIs. That's the most ever in a single WBC by a Dominican hitter and just two shy of the single-tournament record, according to <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/2032604972940947655">Sarah Langs of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>This year marks the first time the Dominicans have reached the semifinals since 2013, when the nation won its only WBC title. Like in 2013, the team has completely dominated. Wells' walk-off shot was the Dominicans' 14th homer of the tournament, tying the single-WBC record set by Mexico in 2009, per <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/2032622713232105739">Langs</a>.</p><p>Though the Koreans were in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2009 after advancing on tiebreakers, they appeared overmatched in Friday's contest. Former MLB All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/20449" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/20449">Hyun Jin Ryu</a>, who returned to his nation's domestic league in 2024, didn't make it out of the second inning and was charged with three earned runs in the loss.</p>

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 13: Austin Wells #28 of Team Dominican Republic celebrates with teammates after hitting a three-run home run in the seventh inning during the 2026 World Baseball Classic Quarterfinals game presented by Capital One between Team Korea and Team Dominican Republic at loanDepot park on Friday, March 13, 2026 in Miami, Florida.

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Dominicans dominate Korea with mercy-rule win to reach WBC semis

Vinnie Pasquantino hit a World Baseball Classic-record three home runs and Aaron Nola tossed five...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13889" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13889">Vinnie Pasquantino</a> hit a World Baseball Classic-record three home runs and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/4777" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/4777">Aaron Nola</a> tossed five shutout innings as Italy continued its remarkable run with a 9-1 win over Mexico to send the Azzurri and Team USA to the quarterfinals.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Italy punches their ticket to the quarterfinals! 🇮🇹 <a href="https://t.co/KkUC2Mgjei">pic.twitter.com/KkUC2Mgjei</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/2031918105849708790?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Italy (4-0) won Pool B and will play Pool A runner-up Puerto Rico in its quarterfinal Saturday. The Americans, who nearly got knocked out of the tournament on tiebreakers after Tuesday's shocking loss to Italy, will take on longtime rival and Pool A winner Canada on Friday in Houston.</p><p>The other quarterfinal matchups <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3497823" href="https://thescore.com/news/3497823">will see</a> Venezuela take on defending champion Japan, and the Dominican Republic face Korea at Miami's LoanDepot Park. The higher-seeded nation will be the designated "home" team in each quarterfinal and get the last at-bat.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Matchup</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>TV</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>March 13</td>
<td>Korea vs. Dominican Republic</td>
<td>6:30 p.m.</td>
<td>FS2/SN360</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>March 13</td>
<td>USA vs. Canada</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
<td>Fox/SN</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>March 14</td>
<td>Puerto Rico vs. Italy</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
<td>FS1/SN1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>March 14</td>
<td>Venezuela vs. Japan</td>
<td>9 p.m.</td>
<td>Fox/SN1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Faced with a win-and-in scenario Wednesday, Italy took control early and didn't let up. Pasquantino hit his first of three round-trippers to lead off the second, sneaking the ball over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/12272" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/12272">Jarren Duran</a>'s glove in right field. He also homered in the sixth and eighth innings.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/3237" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/3237">Jon Berti</a> added a solo shot in the fourth to make it 2-0. Italy then broke it open with a three-run fifth inning that knocked Mexican starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14340" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14340">Javier Assad</a> out of the game.</p><p>The Italians nearly threw the whole tournament into chaos by upsetting the U.S. on Wednesday. Had Mexico beaten Italy by four runs or less, the star-studded Team USA would have been eliminated based on tiebreakers. Instead, manager Mark DeRosa - who <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3497008" href="https://thescore.com/news/3497008">acknowledged</a> that he misunderstood his team's situation heading into the Italy game - will now have a chance at redemption, as well as a world championship.</p><p>Mexico, meanwhile, entered the tournament hoping to build on 2023's run to the semifinals. Instead, the team will head home after pool play for the third time, falling short of qualifying for the 2028 Olympics (the WBC is serving as an Olympic qualifier for teams from the Americas).</p><p>The Mexicans put runners on base in each of the first four innings Wednesday but came up empty every time. They scored their lone run on a bases-loaded RBI groundout by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12534" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12534">Alek Thomas</a> in the bottom of the seventh that marked Mexico's last real threat.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 11: Manager Francisco Cervelli #29 of Italy celebrates with his team after defeating Mexico during the 2026 World Baseball Classic - Pool B at Daikin Park on March 11, 2026 in Houston, Texas.

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Italy thumps Mexico as U.S. survives to reach WBC quarters

At long last, Canada has advanced in the World Baseball Classic.  The Canadians clinched a berth ...

<p>At long last, Canada has advanced in the World Baseball Classic.</p><p>The Canadians clinched a berth in the WBC quarterfinals for the first time with a 7-2 win over Cuba in the Pool A finale at Hiram Bithorn Stadium.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">OHHH CANADA 🇨🇦<br><br>Congrats to <a href="https://twitter.com/baseballcanada?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BaseballCanada</a>, moving on to the Quarters for the first time in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldBaseballClassic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldBaseballClassic</a> HISTORY! <a href="https://t.co/Cq6QoQxrnC">pic.twitter.com/Cq6QoQxrnC</a></p>— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJays/status/2031858163448721577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Canada bounced back from a tough loss to Panama by beating both Puerto Rico, which had already clinched a quarterfinal spot, and Cuba in its final two games to win Pool A. The Canadians earned first place by virtue of holding the head-to-head tiebreaker over Puerto Rico.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Canada will next face the runner-up from Pool B - one of Mexico, Italy, or the United States - at Houston's Daikin Park on either Thursday or Friday. Puerto Rico will face the Pool B winner, also in Houston.</p><p>This year marks the first time that Canada, a participant in all six WBCs, has ever advanced out of the first round. In previous years, it had run into roadblocks while in a pool with the U.S. and Mexico.</p><p>Abraham Toro led the way Wednesday for Canada, going 3-for-5 with a homer that stood up as the game-winning run. Owen Caissie added two RBIs, bringing his career WBC total to nine - a new Canadian record.</p><p>Starter Cal Quantrill was brilliant, allowing just one unearned run on two hits over five innings while striking out five. Indigo Diaz, Adam Macko, James Paxton, and Eric Cerantola followed him out of the bullpen to preserve Canada's win.</p><p>"We're not here for a participation ribbon," Quantrill said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/ShiDavidi/status/2031867817083965687">Sportsnet's Shi Davidi</a>.</p><p>Cuba, meanwhile, failed to advance out of the group stage for the first time in WBC history. The Cubans had reached the quarterfinals in each of the five previous tournaments, including a semifinal berth in 2023.</p><p>Cuba would have moved on with a win Wednesday. Instead, it threw away the game almost immediately, starting with ace Lívan Moinelo being called for two consecutive pitch-clock violations in the first inning. The Cubans also committed three errors, including sixth-inning gaffes by catcher Andrys Perez and second baseman Yiddi Cappe, helping the Canadians break it open.</p>

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO - MARCH 11: Abraham Toro #31 of Team Canada celebrates a 7-2 victory against the Team Cuba after the game during the 2026 World Baseball Classic at Hiram Bithorn Stadium on March 11, 2026 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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Canada beats Cuba to advance in WBC for 1st time

Canada shook off Sunday's tough loss to Panama by defeating Puerto Rico 3-2 on Tuesday at the Wor...

<p>Canada shook off Sunday's tough loss to Panama by defeating Puerto Rico 3-2 on Tuesday at the World Baseball Classic at Hiram Bithorn Stadium.</p><p>The win means the Canadians control their own destiny heading into the Pool A finale against Cuba (2-1) on Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET.</p><p>Canada will clinch the top spot in Pool A and advance out of the first round for the first time in WBC history with a win over Cuba, while Puerto Rico, already qualified for the next round, will finish second. That scenario would set up a quarterfinal matchup between Canada and the Pool B runner-up, with Puerto Rico taking on the Pool B winner. However, the Canadians will be eliminated if they lose to Cuba.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We're looking forward to (playing Cuba)," Canada outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5140" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5140">Tyler O'Neill</a> <a href="https://x.com/WBCBaseball/status/2031578507470328010">said</a> postgame. "It's gonna be a dogfight. They're a great team. We're gonna do our best to come out, play hard, and we'll see what happens."</p><p>Canada fought back from an early 1-0 deficit Tuesday when O'Neill and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/14391" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/14391">Tyler Black</a> drew back-to-back bases-loaded walks in the third inning to take a 2-1 lead. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/10014" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/10014">Abraham Toro</a> drove in what stood up as the winning run with a fourth-inning RBI single.</p><p>Puerto Rico cut the deficit to one run in the bottom of the fourth on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/1841" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/1841">Martín Maldonado</a>'s pinch-hit RBI groundout but couldn't get any closer. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/20455" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/20455">Brock Dykxhoorn</a>, who pitches for Taiwan's Uni-President Lions, shut out the Puerto Ricans over the final three innings to lock down Canada's victory.</p><p>"He pitched extremely well," manager Ernie Whitt said of Dykxhoorn, who was one of the final additions to Team Canada, according to <a href="https://x.com/thehazelmae/status/2031583564052181093">Sportsnet's Hazel Mae</a>. "He was on our radar. Our pitching ... you couldn't ask for more. The three guys (Dykxhoorn, starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/12348" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/12348">Jordan Balazovic</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/9600" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/9600">Logan Allen</a>) stepped up and held a good club in check."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/8241" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/8241">Cal Quantrill</a>, a seven-year big-league veteran, will start Wednesday afternoon's game for Canada. He'll face Cuban ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/20513" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/20513">Lívan Moinelo</a>, who won the Pacific League MVP in Japan last season.</p>

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO - MARCH 10: Owen Caissie #21 of Team Canada celebrates with Liam Hicks #34 after scoring a run on a single hit by Abraham Toro #31 (not pictured) against Team Puerto Rico during the fourth inning at Hiram Bithorn Stadium on March 10, 2026 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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Canada beats Puerto Rico, controls destiny heading into Pool A finale

Puerto Rico's pitching staff isn't going to get a boost in the quarterfinals after all.  Toronto ...

<p>Puerto Rico's pitching staff isn't going to get a boost in the quarterfinals after all.</p><p>Toronto Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a> won't join his national team in the next round of the World Baseball Classic after being denied insurance, Puerto Rico general manager Carlos Beltrán announced Tuesday after his team's loss to Canada, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShiDavidi/status/2031574892605292767">Sportsnet's Shi Davidi</a>.</p><p>"We feel bad because in some way or another we know the intention that he had was to be with us, helping us out, he worked really hard here getting ready," Beltrán said, per <a href="https://x.com/thehazelmae/status/2031581287757099358">Sportsnet's Hazel Mae</a>. "He's in a program ... pitching 70 pitches, and he feels healthy."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Puerto Rican GM Carlos Beltran said Jose Berrios will not be participating at the WBC (insurance was not approved)<br><br>“There’s no doubt he could’ve helped us… the process has been frustrating… we have to move forward.” <a href="https://t.co/uwaSMVp6TM">pic.twitter.com/uwaSMVp6TM</a></p>— Hazel Mae (@thehazelmae) <a href="https://twitter.com/thehazelmae/status/2031577020308820186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Earlier in the day, Puerto Rico manager Yadier Molina said the Blue Jays had signed off on Berríos' participation.</p><p>Berríos, who competed in each of the past three WBCs, was one of several Puerto Rican players who weren't included on the team's initial roster due to insurance issues. He finished the 2025 season on the injured list with elbow inflammation and missed the Blue Jays' run to the World Series.</p><p>However, the 31-year-old has looked sharp in Grapefruit League action thus far, posting a 3.38 ERA and 1.13 WHIP with seven strikeouts and four walks over 10 2/3 spring innings for Toronto.</p><p>Had Berríos been cleared, he likely would have started Puerto Rico's quarterfinal game. Instead, Molina will presumably turn to Seth Lugo, who started the Pool A opener and would be pitching in the quarterfinals on six days' rest.</p><p>Puerto Rico, which hosted Pool A in San Juan, beat Cuba on Monday to clinch a spot in the WBC quarterfinals for the first time since 2017. The team currently sits first in Pool A but would finish second if Canada beats Cuba on Tuesday.</p>

TORONTO, ONTARIO - MARCH 27: José Berríos #17 of the Toronto Blue Jays reacts against the Baltimore Orioles during the first inning on Opening Day at Rogers Centre on March 27, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario.

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Berríos won't join Puerto Rico for quarterfinals after insurance denied

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin was given a five-game suspension for slashing Buffalo's...

<p>Pittsburgh Penguins forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1026" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1026">Evgeni Malkin</a> was given a five-game suspension for slashing Buffalo's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7216" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7216">Rasmus Dahlin</a> in the face, the NHL announced Friday.</p><p>Early in the second period of Thursday's game, Malkin responded to a cross-check from Dahlin by swinging his stick directly into the defenseman's face. Malkin received a match penalty and was ejected.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Malkin just slashed Dahlin across the face... <a href="https://t.co/xYqzrjlrbH">pic.twitter.com/xYqzrjlrbH</a></p>— The Charging Buffalo (@TheChargingBUF) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheChargingBUF/status/2029724299594961250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The NHL Department of Player Safety <a href="https://www.nhl.com/video/topic/player-safety/malkin-suspended-5-games-6390516868112">called</a> his actions "intentional" and said that Malkin's slash was "delivered with requisite force for supplemental discipline."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>This is the second time in Malkin's career that he's been suspended by the NHL for a stick-related incident; he received a one-game ban in 2019 after committing a similar foul that also resulted in a match penalty.</p><p>Malkin, 39, has tallied 13 goals and 47 points along with 51 penalty minutes over 46 games for the Penguins this season.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 22: Evgeni Malkin #71 of the Pittsburgh Penguins skates during the game against the Seattle Kraken at PPG PAINTS Arena on November 22, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Malkin suspended 5 games for slashing Dahlin in face

Bryce Harper is thrilled to be representing his country in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, but h...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1688">Bryce Harper</a> is thrilled to be representing his country in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, but he considers the tournament a stepping stone toward an even bigger stage.</p><p>"Obviously the WBC is great, but it's not the Olympics," the American superstar told <a href="https://x.com/BNightengale/status/2030053542749167764">Bob Nightengale of USA Today</a> on Friday before Team USA's WBC opener against Brazil. "That's no disrespect to the WBC or anything. But everybody knows when the Olympics are on, everybody is watching. Doesn't matter what sport it is. It could be the most random sport, and it has all of the fans watching it."</p><p>Baseball is returning to the Olympics in 2028, when Los Angeles hosts the Summer Games. The sport hasn't been contested at the Olympics since 2020, and it could be a one-off event. The International Olympic Committee added baseball and softball as "optional" sports on account of their popularity in the United States, as it did in 2020, when Tokyo hosted.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Baseball was a regular Olympic sport from 1992-2008. While professionals from Japan and Korea often participated in past Olympics, MLB never allowed its players to participate, with the exception of minor-leaguers who weren't on 40-man rosters.</p><p>Many MLB players have publicly expressed their desire to play in the 2028 Olympics. Commissioner Rob Manfred is open to the idea as well, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3477805" href="https://thescore.com/news/3477805">saying</a> in February that he's optimistic it will happen. To do so, the league would have to schedule a midseason break in July, with the Olympic tournament essentially replacing that year's All-Star Game.</p><p>The players and owners would also have to agree to such a break in the next collective bargaining agreement. Harper, who's set to play in his first WBC, believes that allowing MLB players to take part in the Olympics would give the sport an even grander stage.</p><p>"I hope LA28 happens," Harper said. "I'm hoping the next CBA agreement can happen where teams and players can come to an agreement on taking that two-week break, especially it being in our home country. It would be great for baseball. You talk about growing the game, and being able to grow it at the highest level would help out tremendously."</p><p>Unlike the 20-team WBC, the next Summer Games will feature a six-team tournament. The WBC is acting as a partial qualifier for the event, with Olympic berths being awarded to the top two teams from the Americas based on the overall standings (excluding Team USA, which automatically qualifies as the host nation).</p><p>Japan beat the U.S. to win gold at the 2020 Olympics, while the Dominican Republic took home bronze.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 05: Bryce Harper #24 of Team USA looks on during 2026 World Baseball Classic Pool B Workouts at Daikin Park on March 05, 2026 in Houston, Texas.

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Harper ahead of WBC debut: 'It's not the Olympics'

The Chicago Bears are releasing former Pro Bowl linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, sources told ESPN's ...

<p>The Chicago Bears are releasing former Pro Bowl linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99556" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99556">Tremaine Edmunds</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2029745655720382707">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Chicago had granted Edmunds permission to seek a trade in February.</p><p>Cutting Edmunds gives the Bears an additional $15 million in cap space heading into the new league year. He was slated to earn $13.9 million in 2026.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The move follows Chicago's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3492082" href="https://thescore.com/news/3492082">reported</a> trade of wideout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97110" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97110">DJ Moore</a> to the Buffalo Bills.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Between the trade of DJ Moore, release of Tremaine Edmunds and retirement of Drew Dalman, the Bears have about $44M in new cap space as of this week.<br><br>Be it addressing C or fortifying the defense, Chicago has spending power.</p>— Field Yates (@FieldYates) <a href="https://twitter.com/FieldYates/status/2029746326196433287?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Edmunds, 27, spent the last three seasons in Chicago, where he recorded 190 tackles, two sacks, and nine interceptions across 45 games.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 10: Tremaine Edmunds #49 of the Chicago Bears lines up during an NFL wild card playoff game against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field on January 10, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Bears releasing Edmunds

Find the biggest stories and top news from the World Baseball Classic by visiting our WBC news se...

<p><em>Find the biggest stories and top news from the World Baseball Classic by visiting our <a href="thescore:///wbc/news">WBC news section</a> and subscribing to push notifications for both the tournament and your national team.</em></p><p>Riding the high of the 2023 World Baseball Classic, it's easy to get excited for another potential USA-Japan rematch in the final. But let's not get too far ahead of ourselves. Before the knockout round comes pool play, and the four groups all have intriguing matchups loaded with storylines. Here are five must-watch games on the schedule at this year's World Baseball Classic.</p><h3>March 7: South Korea vs. Japan</h3><p>📺: 5 a.m. ET </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>You're likely going to need to set an alarm for this one if you're in North America, but Asia's most heated international baseball rivalry is worth the early wakeup call. However, it's been a rather one-sided rivalry lately, as Samurai Japan hasn't lost to South Korea in any tourney since the 2015 Premier12 Tournament semifinals. Japan also won when these teams last met in the WBC three years ago during the group stage, so revenge will certainly be on South Korea's mind. This contest will be the second Pool C game for both squads, meaning the winner could secure a better quarterfinal seeding if both advance. Asian baseball crowds can make a day at the diamond feel more like a soccer match, with nonstop chants, energy, and noise that makes the stadium shake - and that's just for a regular-season game. When it's Japan hosting South Korea at the Tokyo Dome, everything gets kicked up several dozen notches.</p><h3>March 8: Dominican Republic vs. Netherlands</h3><p>📺: 12 p.m. ET </p><p>The Dominicans need not be reminded of what the Dutch can do on the diamond. Seventeen years ago, the Netherlands pulled off what's still the biggest <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bY3pt_94etw">upset</a> in WBC history by eliminating a star-studded Dominican Republic team that was expected to cruise to the title. This year, the Dutch have another chance to throw a wrench into the plans. Though the Dominicans are the clear favorite in Pool D, this matchup with the Netherlands looms as a trap if they're not careful. The Honkbalers, meanwhile, must win this outing if they hope to advance for the first time since reaching the semifinals in 2017. It's not necessarily a traditional rivalry game, but given what's likely at stake, this isn't one to miss.</p><h3>March 9: Mexico vs. United States</h3><p>📺: 8 p.m. ET </p><p>It's always a show when the United States and Mexico meet, regardless of the sport. Given recent events on and off the diamond, this game between Pool B favorites could take on a new level of significance on both sides of the border. Three years ago, Mexico beat the U.S. 11-5 in group play, ultimately winning the pool on a tiebreaker. That loss will surely give the Americans extra motivation, making this their long-awaited shot at revenge. Both teams are also stronger this time around, setting the stage for a higher level of competition. Add in what should be an electric atmosphere in Houston - a city that's home to large Mexican and Hispanic populations - and you have all the ingredients for an instant classic.</p><h3>March 10: Canada vs. Puerto Rico</h3><p>📺: 7 p.m. ET </p><p>This matchup will almost certainly be a must-win game for both teams. Canada, still seeking its first trip past the opening round of the WBC, has a chance to enter this contest 2-0 if it can beat Colombia and Panama. Even at 1-1, Ernie Whitt's Canadian squad could be primed to make history. However, standing in the way is a hungry Puerto Rican team buoyed by a raucous home crowd at San Juan's Hiram Bithorn Stadium. Unlike Canada, Puerto Rico has advanced out of the first round in each of the five previous WBCs and has twice reached the finals. To do that again, it must beat Canada in what'll be the team's final pool game. Canada and Puerto Rico may not be natural rivals, but there will certainly be plenty of tension between the strongest squads in Pool A. </p><h3>March 11: Dominican Republic vs. Venezuela</h3><p>📺: 8 p.m. ET </p><p>The two Pool D heavyweights have to wait until the final game of the group to square off. But even if they're just jockeying for quarterfinal positioning, this contest should be an absolute doozy. The Dominican Republic and Venezuela are proud baseball nations that have expectations of winning it all. Their fan bases are loud, spirited, and turn ballparks into giant parties. It's the kind of matchup that brings out the best in players and should feature incredible passion on both sides. Since it's the last game of Pool D and the tournament is short, there's a chance this ends up as a win-or-go-home showdown for either side or maybe even both. What a treat that would be if the baseball gods were to make it happen.</p>

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 21: A detail shot of the World Baseball Classic championship trophy on the field during the opening ceremony prior to the 2023 World Baseball Classic Championship game between Team USA and Team Japan at loanDepot Park on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

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5 must-watch games at 2026 World Baseball Classic 

There's a dark horse in the Kyler Murray sweepstakes quietly waiting to see if he'll pick a new c...

<p>There's a dark horse in the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97952" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97952">Kyler Murray</a> sweepstakes quietly waiting to see if he'll pick a new career path.</p><p>The NFL's Arizona Cardinals will <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3490563" href="https://thescore.com/news/3490563">reportedly</a> release the two-time Pro Bowl quarterback next week. However, the Athletics - who still hold Murray's baseball rights after drafting him in 2018 - said Wednesday that the organization would welcome him back should he wish to return to the diamond.</p><p>"Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback and I'm sure there are plenty of opportunities for him to continue his football career," Athletics general manager David Forst told <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/news/kyler-murray-released-a-s-open-to-reunion-with-former-first-round-draft-pick?t=mlb-pipeline-coverage">Martín Gallegos of MLB.com</a>. "That said, he and his baseball representatives know that we're always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A's if that time ever comes."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Murray was a legitimate two-sport star in college at Oklahoma. Months before winning the Heisman Trophy in 2018, he hit .296/.398/.556 with 10 homers, 47 RBIs, and 10 steals in 51 games as the Sooners' starting center fielder.</p><p>The A's saw enough baseball potential to select him ninth overall in the 2018 MLB Draft and handed him a $4.66-million signing bonus while allowing him to continue playing football at Oklahoma. He was expected to begin his pro baseball career in 2019, but Murray's Heisman win led him to spurn the diamond for the gridiron before playing a game in green and gold. Arizona made him the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.</p><p>By choosing football over baseball, Murray had to return most of his signing bonus to the Athletics. However, because the A's own his baseball rights, he'd have to return to their organization if he did return to the sport. Officially, Murray's been on MLB's restricted list since going pro in football.</p><p>Murray was ranked as the No. 36 prospect by <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/2018/draft/">MLB.com</a> ahead of the 2018 draft, with speed highlighted as his best attribute. After signing him, Athletics president Billy Beane <a href="https://www.mlb.com/athletics/news/kyler-murray-signs-with-athletics-c281361954">declared</a> Murray was "one of the most dynamic athletes that we've selected since I've been here."</p><p>The 28-year-old quarterback has not publicly expressed any interest in returning to baseball. In a post Tuesday on <a href="https://x.com/K1/status/2028937232057549312?s=20">X</a>, Murray wrote: "I truly believe my best ball is in front of me and I look forward to proving it," presumably referring to his NFL career.</p>

OAKLAND, CA - JUNE 15: First round draft pick Kyler Murray of the Oakland Athletics takes batting practice after signing his contract at the Oakland Alameda Coliseum on June 15, 2018 in Oakland, California.

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A's GM: Door is 'always open' if Kyler wants to return to baseball

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WBC Power Rankings: Can anyone prevent a USA-Japan rematch?

<p><em>Find the biggest stories and top news from the World Baseball Classic by visiting our <a href="thescore:///wbc/news">WBC news section</a> and subscribing to push notifications for both the tournament and your national team.</em></p><p>The World Baseball Classic is back, and this time it feels very different. What was once merely an experiment, perhaps even an afterthought, has become a highly anticipated event on baseball's calendar, thanks to an iconic 2023 tournament that featured a memorable, heart-stopping final. Defending champion Samurai Japan is back to try and win a record fourth WBC title. But Team USA is hungry to avenge that gut-wrenching loss, and the Dominican Republic also wants to shake off a disappointing 2023 result - or maybe a Cinderella team will emerge. Here's everything you need to know about the 2026 World Baseball Classic.</p><p><strong>Dates</strong> 🗓: March 5-17<br><strong>Where</strong> 🌎: San Juan, Puerto Rico; Houston, Texas; Tokyo, Japan; Miami, Florida<br><strong>Venues</strong> 🏟: Hiram Bithorn Stadium, Daikin Park, Tokyo Dome, LoanDepot Park<br><strong>How to watch</strong> 📺: Fox Sports 🇺🇸, Sportsnet 🇨🇦<br><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3424428" href="https://thescore.com/news/3424428"><strong>Rosters</strong></a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#Pool%20A">Pool A</a>: 🇵🇷🇨🇺🇨🇦🇵🇦🇨🇴<br><a href="#Pool%20B">Pool B</a>: 🇺🇸🇲🇽🇮🇹🇬🇧🇧🇷<br><a href="#Pool%20C">Pool C</a>: 🇯🇵🇦🇺🇰🇷🇨🇿🇹🇼<br><a href="#Pool%20D">Pool D</a>: 🇩🇴🇻🇪🇳🇱🇮🇱🇳🇮</p><p><strong>Rules of note</strong></p><p>As in past years, the WBC employs some special rules to protect players - and specifically pitchers - during the tournament.</p><ul>
<li>Pitchers can't throw more than 65 pitches in pool play, 80 during the quarterfinals, and 95 in the semifinals and final. Pitchers can only exceed those limits if they're finishing an at-bat.</li>
<li>A pitcher who throws at least 30 pitches in a game must rest for one day, while those who cross the 50-pitch mark will be shut down for the next four days.</li>
<li>Mercy rule will be in effect. Games will end after the seventh inning if a team leads by 10 or more runs and after five if a team is up by at least 15. Mercy rule won't be used during the semifinals and championship game.</li>
<li>Extra-inning games will use the ghost runner.</li>
</ul><p>This edition of the WBC will feature a pitch clock for the first time, with the same rules as in MLB. However, the Automatic Ball-Strike System, which is debuting in the majors this season, won't be used.</p><p><strong>How the tournament works</strong></p><p>The 20 nations are divided into four pools and will face each team in their pool once during round-robin play. The top two teams in each pool advance to the knockout round, played in a single-elimination bracket format.</p><p>If the standings are tied after round-robin play, a <a href="https://www.mlb.com/world-baseball-classic/news/world-baseball-classic-2026-schedule-dates-times-rosters">series of tiebreakers</a> will be used to determine who advances, beginning with head-to-head performance. Tiebreakers were a big storyline in 2013, when a misunderstanding of the rules led to an <a href="https://youtu.be/cjqNtPD63Xo?t=9205">ugly brawl</a> between Canada and Mexico, and in 2023 after all five Pool A teams finished at 2-2.</p><p><strong>Olympics tie-in</strong></p><p>The 2026 WBC will serve as a partial qualifier for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic baseball tournament. The two highest-placed teams from the Americas in the WBC's overall standings - not including Team USA, which automatically qualifies as the host nation - will clinch spots in L.A.</p><p><strong>Pool-by-pool breakdown</strong></p><h3><a id="Pool A" name="Pool%20A">Pool A</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/cropped_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/w220xh124_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/w320xh180_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/w640xh360_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/w768xh432_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Al Bello / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Location: </strong>Hiram Bithorn Stadium (San Juan, Puerto Rico)</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool A" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-iH5Ed" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/iH5Ed/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="243" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>This may be the most balanced of the four pools. Puerto Rico is missing many of its biggest stars due to insurance issues and other concerns, but it will have the cushion of home-field advantage for the first time since 2013. Cuba is always a threat on the international stage. The team arguably boasts Pool A's best starter in Lívan Moinelo, the 2025 Pacific League MVP in Japan, and closer in Raidel Martínez, who's allowed just 22 earned runs over the last four NPB seasons. The Canadians, who may have the pool's top lineup even without Freddie Freeman, should have a better chance to finally advance now that they're not placed with the U.S. and Mexico. Colombia and Panama are the minnows here, but don't let your guard down; the burgeoning baseball nations are capable of pulling off an upset.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool A schedule" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VQmyJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VQmyJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="409" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3><a id="Pool B" name="Pool%20B">Pool B</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/cropped_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mary DeCicco / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Location: </strong>Daikin Park (Houston, Texas)</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool B" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-rrCpy" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/rrCpy/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="243" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The odds - and schedule-makers - certainly favor both North American teams here. Team USA, eager to finish the job after falling to Japan in the 2023 final, is stacked with superstars at the plate and - finally - on the mound. The Americans be very tough to beat, but Mexico, which knocked off the U.S. decisively in pool play in 2023 en route to a breakthrough semifinal appearance, is hungry for more. This Mexican squad is improved and has little fear of its natural rivals. If there's an upset to be had among this pool, it will likely come from Italy, which is hoping to repeat its miracle quarterfinal run but has a much tougher slate of opponents this time around. Brazil, making its first WBC appearance since 2013, is a very young team and may be the tournament weakling. The Brazilians must beat Great Britain just to have a chance at avoiding relegation.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool B Schedule" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2Efse" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2Efse/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="409" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3><a id="Pool C" name="Pool%20C">Pool C</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/cropped_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/w220xh124_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/w320xh180_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/w640xh360_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/w768xh432_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Christopher Pasatieri / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Location: </strong>Tokyo Dome (Tokyo, Japan)</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool C" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-SloAm" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SloAm/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="243" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>All roads in Tokyo run through the home team, defending WBC champion Samurai Japan. Anything can happen in a short tournament, but Japan's mix of NPB and MLB superstars - not to mention the best player on earth in Shohei Ohtani - make it hard to see how this team can be toppled in round-robin play. South Korea and Chinese Taipei seem to be the biggest threats as experienced teams with plenty of high-caliber talent. However, both nations stumbled in 2023 and failed to advance. Australia will be looking to upset South Korea again and reach the quarters for a second straight tournament. Czechia's the clear weak link, and though it may struggle to win a game, we already know from last time that this lovable team of semipros won't back down from a fight with the big boys.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool C Schedule" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ypj3X" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ypj3X/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="428" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3><a id="Pool D" name="Pool%20D">Pool D</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/cropped_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/w220xh124_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/w320xh180_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/w640xh360_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/w768xh432_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rob Tringali / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Location: </strong>LoanDepot Park (Miami, Florida)</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool D" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-PO3Qv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/PO3Qv/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="243" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>A vastly improved Dominican Republic squad is the heavy favorite to bounce back from 2023's disaster and make it to the knockout round. Venezuela's the other powerhouse in this pool and is widely expected to advance, although there were legitimate concerns about its pitching staff even before Pablo López's injury. As always, the true dark horse is the Netherlands, the king of European baseball (or Honkbal, as it's called there) and a two-time WBC semifinalist with a long history of pulling off upsets in this tournament. Israel and Nicaragua will most likely again be locked in a battle to avoid relegation.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool D Schedule" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-dB98p" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/dB98p/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="503" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>Knockout round</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Quarterfinals" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gWiVL" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gWiVL/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="311" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Semifinals" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-mvJvS" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/mvJvS/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="180" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WBC Championship Game 🏆" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-t73ry" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/t73ry/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="142" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure>

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World Baseball Classic preview: Everything you need to know

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