Summary
The 2026 World Baseball Classic will start on March 5 with 20 teams competing. Team USA is part of Pool B and aims to win its first title since 2017. The biggest competition for Team USA may come from Japan, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic.
Key Facts
- The World Baseball Classic will feature 20 teams, starting on March 5, 2026.
- Team USA is in Pool B with Mexico, Italy, Great Britain, and Brazil.
- Team USA lost to Japan in the 2023 final and wants to win its first title since 2017.
- Japan won three out of the five past tournaments and has a strong team despite some key players missing.
- Venezuela has a strong pitching staff and deep offensive lineup with players like Ronald Acuna.
- The Dominican Republic is seen as very talented but has had mixed results in past tournaments.
- Japan, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic are considered top challengers to the USA.
