32 Weeks From First Pitch
Sixteen weeks ago, with the Major League Baseball season just getting underway, the World Baseball Network published 10 Bold Predictions for the 2026 World Baseball Classic — a look ahead at how the next WBC could shake out.
Now just 32 weeks from first pitch on March 6, 2026, many of those predictions are already aging boldly — and the storylines have only gotten better.
Here’s some of what’s happened since our July 15 recap, which tracked roster moves across the Caribbean, the United States, and Japan.
Taiwan Looks to Bolster 2026 Roster
With preparations underway for the 2026 WBC, CPBL commissioner Tsai Chi-chang confirmed Taiwan will seek to strengthen its roster with MLB and overseas talent. Several pitchers are being evaluated ahead of Pool B play next March.
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Great Britain’s Roster Taking Shape
From Jazz Chisholm Jr. to Harry Ford and Tahnaj Thomas, Great Britain is expected to field its strongest WBC team yet. Jeff Duda breaks down how they stack up in Pool B — and where surprises might emerge.
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Alex Carrillo Expresses Interest in Joining Mexico’s WBC Roster
Right-hander Alex Carrillo, currently in the Mets’ system with a fastball topping 97.8 mph, has shown interest in pitching for Mexico at the 2026 World Baseball Classic. He could emerge as a valuable bullpen piece behind stars like Randy Arozarena and Jarren Duran. Read full article
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Cuba Will Play Two Spring Exhibitions Before WBC
Cuba will face two Major League clubs during 2026 MLB spring training on March 2 and March 4. It marks the first time since 2016 the Cuban national team will play sanctioned exhibition games on U.S. soil before a major international tournament.
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Cal Raleigh Confirms Team USA Commitment
Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, fresh off his 2025 Home Run Derby title, announced live on MLB Network that he will represent Team USA at the 2026 WBC. Raleigh adds power and depth behind the plate, likely sharing time with Will Smith and possibly J.T. Realmuto.
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For full WBC coverage, visit worldbaseball.com/league/wbc
