On Wednesday, Miami Marlins pitcher Valente Bellozo told Miami Marlins media he has been named to Mexico’s preliminary roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
The 25-year-old right-hander from Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, has posted a 3.71 ERA across 43 2/3 innings in the majors this season, tallying 33 strikeouts. He’s made 14 appearances, including five starts, and has been particularly effective in the rotation—recording a 3.27 ERA with 16 strikeouts over 22 innings. His versatility makes him a strong candidate to earn a starting role for Mexico in next year’s tournament.
At the 2023 WBC, Mexico’s rotation featured Julio Urías, Patrick Sandoval, Taijuan Walker, and José Urquidy. However, with Urías unlikely to return, Sandoval and Urquidy recovering from Tommy John surgery, and Javier Assad currently injured, the door is wide open for Bellozo to claim a spot in the rotation.
In an era dominated by high-velocity arms, Bellozo stands out for a different reason. His average fastball velocity of 90.8 mph ranks tied for 580th among MLB pitchers who have appeared in at least one game this year. He throws the fastball just 29.3% of the time, relying instead on a deep pitch mix. His changeup and slider are his most effective weapons—key to his ability to generate soft contact. Though he doesn’t overpower hitters, Bellozo succeeds through command, pitch sequencing, and a clear understanding of how to pitch at the highest level.
Given the injury setbacks on Team Mexico’s pitching staff, a roster spot for Bellozo appears increasingly likely—and a place in the starting rotation is certainly within reach. Mexico, coming off a semifinal run in the last WBC, will look to take the next step and capture the title in March 2026. If they do, Bellozo could play a pivotal role.
Mexico will open Pool B play at the 2026 World Baseball Classic in Houston on March 6 against Great Britain. They’ll face Great Britain, Brazil, the United States, and Italy in pool action.
Photo: Miami Marlins starting pitcher Valente Bellozo (83) in action during a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Friday, June 13, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
