Dominican Republic Team World Baseball Classic 2026
The Dominican Republic enters the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) as one of the top favorites to reclaim the title they won undefeated in 2013. Managed by Hall of Famer Albert Pujols and with Nelson Cruz as general manager, the team is building a powerhouse roster filled with MLB superstars. After a disappointing first-round exit in 2023 (despite outscoring opponents), the Dominicans are motivated to dominate. As of December 2025, several key players have confirmed their participation, promising one of the most talented lineups in WBC history.
Tournament Details for the Dominican Republic
Pool D: Facing Venezuela, Netherlands, Israel, and Nicaragua.
Venue: loan Depot Park, Miami, Florida (March 6-11, 2026).
Exhibition Games: Two matches against the Detroit Tigers on March 3-4, 2026, at Estadio Quisqueya Juan Marichal in Santo Domingo.
Full WBC Dates: March 5-17, 2026.
The coaching staff includes legends like Pedro Martínez, David Ortiz, and Adrián Beltré.
Notable Absences:
Elly de la Cruz (Reds): Declined due to team recommendation.
Teoscar Hernández (Dodgers): Personal decision to rest.
Robinson Canó and Emilio Bonifacio: Excluded by management.
Pitching depth includes potentials like Framber Valdez, Luis Castillo, Freddy Peralta, and closers like Camilo Doval and Emmanuel Clase.
Projected Dream Lineup Dominican Republic
A potential starting lineup based on confirmations could look unstoppable:
- Ketel Marte (2B)
- Juan Soto (LF)
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (1B)
- Manny Machado (3B)
- Fernando Tatis Jr. (RF)
- Julio Rodríguez (CF)
- José Ramírez (DH)
- Junior Caminero (3B/DH)
- Geraldo Perdomo (SS)
This combination of power, speed, and defense could overwhelm opponents.
