Surprisingly, this will be Panama’s first season competing for a shot at the Premier12 title. Heading into this year’s Premier12 tournament, Panama currently ranks at tenth.
Although they have not appeared in Premier12, Panama has appeared in three World Baseball Classics: 2006, 2009, and 2023. They’re coming off their best finish in the World Baseball Classic in 2023, going 2-2. They were able to secure their spot in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Jamie Barria will look to lead Panama’s rotation after a strong season in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO). Barria began the season pitching in the Cleveland Guardians system before being released to pursue an opportunity in South Korea. After a dominant season in Japan, Alberto Baldonado will look to lock down the bullpen. Baldonado made his MLB debut in 2021 with the Washington Nationals.
An intriguing name to keep an eye on will be catcher Leonardo Bernal. Bernal is a member of the St. Louis Cardinals organization. Joining Bernal, former MLB veterans Ruben Tejada, Jonathan Arauz, and Johan Camargo will look to provide veteran leadership for Panama’s lineup.
Panama will play on opening night, November 9, when they will face the Netherlands. The first pitch is set for 2 PM EST, and the event will be held at Estadio Panamericano in Guadalajara, Mexico.
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