Brazil enters the World Baseball Classic Qualifiers looking to return to the WBC for the first time in over a decade. In 2012, Brazil shocked Panamá and advanced to the 2013 World Baseball Classic. They’ll look to get back for the 2026 edition.
Players to watch –
P Bo Takahashi
The Brazilian right-hander, who has spent the last 3 seasons with the Seibu Lions of Nippon Professional Baseball, should be one of Brazil’s top starters. He had a 3.22 ERA and 48 strikeouts in 72 IP in 2024. He’s likely a top 2 starter and will be leaned on for a big performance.
P Heitor Tokar
The former minor leaguer pitched in México and the American Association for Sioux City. He had a 3.95 ERA in the AA. He pitched for Brazil in the South American Championship and had seven strikeouts in 3 2/3 IP. He started Brazil’s qualifier final against Nicaragua and took the loss. He should be in the rotation once again for Brazil.
IF Leonardo Reginatto
The infielder, one of 5 players who played on Brazil’s 2013 WBC roster that are on this roster, will be relied upon to deliver some pop for this offense. He had a .827 OPS and 11 HR in México in 2024. He had a .623 in the Venezuelan Winter League. They’ll need him closer to the form he had in México on a team with limited offense.
C/1B Gabriel Gomes
The Reds has a .831 OPS in the Dominican Summer League and will be counted on to provide offense and flash his on-base skills, which is his strength. He has yet to strike out more than walk in a season in the DSL in his career. He played in the Brazilian Baseball Cup and has a 1.499 OPS.
Fans can watch the World Baseball Classic Qualifiers on the WBC’s Youtube, Facebook, and MLB.TV.
