We’re now 30 weeks out from the 2026 World Baseball Classic, and national rosters are beginning to come into focus. This past week brought major updates across four continents.
Brazil locked in Bo Bichette. Venezuela unveiled a coaching staff loaded with national icons. Freddy Peralta confirmed his commitment to the Dominican Republic. And a potential scheduling twist—moving the WBC to MLB’s All-Star break—could reshape the tournament’s future.
If you missed it, catch up on past editions
July 29 Recap | July 22 Edition | July 15 Breakdown
Also read: 10 Bold Predictions for the 2026 WBC — how many are already coming true?
10 Bold Predictions for the 2026 World Baseball Classic by www.WorldBaseball.com
Freddy Peralta Joins Loaded Dominican Republic Staff
Milwaukee Brewers Pitcher Freddy Peralta Commits to D.R. for 2026 WBC
Fresh off a breakout season in Milwaukee, Freddy Peralta confirmed to MLB.com that he’s all in for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The right-hander brings swing-and-miss stuff and front-line experience to a Dominican Republic rotation that already includes Luis Castillo and Cristopher Sánchez.
The Dominican Republic opens Pool D play on March 6 at loanDepot Park in Miami.
WBC Could Move to the All-Star Break
The World Baseball Classic Could Potentially be Moved to the All-Star Break
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, Major League Baseball is exploring the possibility of shifting the WBC to the midseason All-Star break in future editions. Team USA manager Mark DeRosa believes the move is inevitable—and could open the door for players to compete in the Olympics.
Such a change would require an extended break in the MLB calendar and comes with pros and cons for players, federations, and global audiences alike.
Team Venezuela Coaching Staff Stacked With Legends
Venezuela Officially Announcing Complete Coaching Staff For 2026 WBC
Venezuela revealed its full coaching staff for the 2026 WBC, and it’s loaded with iconic names. Johan Santana will serve as pitching coach. Miguel Cabrera and Carlos “Beto” Méndez will guide hitters. Gerardo Parra takes over outfield instruction. Victor Martínez joins as assistant manager, while Robinson Chirinos will be López’s bench coach.
The squad is expected to feature Ronald Acuña Jr., Jackson Chourio, and Eugenio Suárez. Preparation will begin this fall, with players expected to join the LVBP for 15–17 games before spring training.
Title: Puerto Rico WBC Final Fans – Fans gather in the street to watch the World Baseball Classic final match between Puerto Rico and the United States, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Wednesday, March 22, 2017. Puerto Rico’s team reached the final phase of the tournament undefeated. (AP Photo/Carlos Giusti)
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