The best major league players won’t be donning their MLB team jerseys. Instead, they’ll wear uniforms with their country across their chest, competing with the top players from around the globe. This is not for an exhibition. This is the World Baseball Classic — the highest-profile international baseball tournament in the world. In March, 20 teams from around the globe will face off in the sixth edition of the WBC.
Japan will enter as the defending champion. Meanwhile, the United States will be seeking revenge after falling short as the runner-up in 2023. There’s little doubt those two powers will once again be among the fiercest competitors in 2026. The Dominican Republic — WBC champions in 2013 — will look to bounce back after a disappointing first-round exit in the last tournament. Correlate that Japan, the United States, and the Dominican Republic are the only three countries to have ever won the World Baseball Classic. The U.S. hasn’t claimed the title since 2017.
2026 World Baseball Classic
The 2026 World Baseball Classic will be broadcast exclusively in the U.S. across FOX Sports networks, including FOX, FS1, FS2, and FOX Deportes, with all 47 games available on the FOX Sports App, Tubi, and FOX One.
Matches run from March 4-17, 2026, featuring 20 nations with games in Tokyo, San Juan, Houston, and Miami.
2026 World Baseball Classic Odds to Win
| Team | Odds |
|---|---|
| United States | -115 |
| Japan | +410 |
| Dominican Republic | +460 |
| Venezuela | +750 |
| All Other Teams | +2700 or higher |
2026 World Baseball Classic Top Teams
United States
The USA is widely called the strongest Team USA in WBC history. Consider the massive upgrades in pitching (addressing 2023’s weaknesses) and a power-loaded lineup. Experts rank them #1. Key Strengths include an elite starting rotation (best in the tournament), a dominant bullpen, and overwhelming offensive depth. To summarize, standout Players for the USA include pitchers Tarik Skubal (back-to-back AL Cy Young), Paul Skenes (recent NL Cy Young), Logan Webb, and Joe Ryan. Hitters include Aaron Judge (captain, multi-time MVP), Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, Cal Raleigh, Bobby Witt Jr., and Gunnar Henderson.
Japan
Naturally, Japan is a highly regarded three-time winner (2006, 2009, 2023) with an undefeated pedigree and home advantage at the Tokyo Dome. Some rankings still put them #1 due to history and consistency. Correlate that Japan’s assets include a proven WBC formula. To illuminate, Japan will have strong pitching, disciplined hitting, and clutch play. Shohei Ohtani (hitting-only) adds a superstar factor. Standout Players for Japan include pitchers Yoshinobu Yamamoto (ace), plus NPB standouts. Hitters include Ohtani, Seiya Suzuki, and Munetaka Murakami.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic was the 2013 champion, with deep MLB talent, and is often ranked among the top 3. Additionally, the DR boasts a loaded lineup and solid pitching make them dangerous in a competitive pool. Key assets for the DR include power hitting, experience, and balance. They are strong in high-pressure games. Standout Players likely include Juan Soto, Manny Machado, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and others (roster heavy with All-Stars).
Venezuela
Venezuela boasts a deep, balanced roster with strong pitching and MLB depth, and it frequently ranks among the top 5. Specifically, key strengths include a versatile lineup and reliable arms; often underrated but capable of upsets. Top players feature a mix of MLB stars (specifics vary, but power and contact hitters are prominent).
2026 World Baseball Classic SBG Best Bets
Team USA boasts an elite roster (Aaron Judge, captain; Tarik Skubal/Paul Skenes, pitching duo; Bryce Harper, etc.). Indeed, it is a deep, loaded roster with sustainability.
Main Pick: USA to Win Outright and in Pool B
Player Prop Picks: Aaron Judge MVP, Shohei Ohtani for Most Home Runs, and Juan Soto for MVP