Santo Domingo.- The groups for the 2026 World Baseball Classic were announced on Wednesday, with the Dominican Republic set to play in Miami, facing off against Venezuela, the Netherlands, Israel, and one yet-to-be-determined team. Fans can look forward to the tournament’s second edition featuring 20 teams.
As in 2023, the tournament will consist of four groups with five teams each. The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals, scheduled for March 13 and 14 in Houston and Miami. If the United States progresses to this stage, they will play on March 13, regardless of their group standing. The same applies to reigning champions Japan, who will compete on March 14, provided they finish in the top two of their group.
The semi-finals and final will take place in Miami, starting on March 15. The final four teams in the tournament will be determined through upcoming qualifiers. Puerto Rico will also host a first-round group, featuring Puerto Rico, Cuba, Panama, Canada, and one other team yet to qualify.