Colombia enters the World Baseball Classic Qualifiers as a massive favorite in Tucson. They took down the favored Panamanians at the qualifiers for the 2017 tournament and nearly eliminated the Dominican Republic in pool play. For 2026, they must qualify and enter with one of, if not the best rosters in World Baseball Classic Qualifiers history.
Players to watch –
P David Lorduy
The RHP in Cincinnati’s organization reached A ball in 2024 and absolutely dominated with a 0.60 ERA and 10.2 SO/9. He’s one of the young guys who could have a coming out party to a larger audience in this qualifier.
P Víctor Vargas
Vargas had his breakout in 2024 with Milwaukee in the American Association with a 2.11 ERA and earned a contract with the Reds. He’ll be pitching for Puebla in México this season but should slot into the rotation here.
IF Michael Arroyo
Arroyo, one of the best prospects out of Colombia, is one of the headliners for the Colombian team. One of two 19-year-old hitters to have an OPS over .900 on A+ ball in 2024, he had a .904 OPS with 11 HR for Everett. He followed that up with a .995 OPS in the Colombian winter league with an eye popping .509 OBP. This tournament should establish him as the face of Colombian baseball.
OF Harold Ramírez
Former MLB outfielder Harold Ramírez will be a key hitter for Colombia. He is signed to play in México in 2025. He had a .604 OPS for the Nationals and Rays in 2024 before starting for Licey in the LIDOM postseason.
