We are family here. That's why we play with passion, with love - because we feel that jersey, we feel our country in front of us. That's why this is a lot for us as players, as people, as human beings and as Venezuelans. Now we are the champions. Nobody believed in Venezuela, but now we've won the championship.
Matt Mervis is someone who I would absolutely love to see with the Nationals at the big league level because of his ability to create runs, be a consistent hitter, and has the potential, if given enough plate appearances, to hit 20+ home runs for the Nationals--his nickname is "Mash" for a reason.
A roster featuring MLB stars Nolan Arenado, Edwin Diaz and Seth Lugo was enough to give Puerto Rico the nod over an emerging Canada squad in the eyes of our voters -- and the vast majority of our experts predicted that both countries would move on to the quarterfinals.
I don't want to. You can't end it better than I did last year. I had a great time last year. It was an absolute blast and honor to be on that team. I think that was the perfect way to end it. Honestly, I don't know if I would have enough in the tank to pitch for a full season again. I'm really at peace with that decision.
After missing the 2023 WBC, Seiya Suzuki will play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/Zyc7CL8tuy - Shawn Spradling (@Shawn_Spradling) January 26, 2026 Suzuki missed the 2023 WBC due to an oblique injury, but he is healthy and available this time around. Team Japan honored Suzuki during the last tournament, even hanging his jersey in the dugout. When they won, the team brought his jersey onto the field so he could be part of the celebration.
Pages explained to the Cuban outlet why he ultimately chose not to suit up for his home country. "I have a lot of things to improve, and I need to prepare for a long season," Pages said. "I have to focus on what's most important." Pages was on Cuba's preliminary roster and showed interest; however, he decided to switch to focus on his game and grow with the Dodgers.
Buxton and Clement will be participating in the event for the first time. They join a star-studded group that already includes New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge, Seattle Mariners slugger Cal Raleigh and Philadelphia Phillies MVP Bryce Harper. Buxton appeared in 126 games for the Twins last season, hitting .264/.327/.551 with 21 doubles, seven triples, 35 home runs, 83 RBI and 24 stolen bases.
