The 20-team World Baseball Classic is set to return for another edition in 2026, three years after Japan’s victory over the United States. Baseball experts have been making their predictions for the upcoming tournament, including which teams will advance from each pool, who will reach the championship round, and who will be named MVP, top pitcher, and breakout star.
Team USA’s Chances in the 2026 WBC
The United States are the unanimous choice among experts to advance from their pool. The roster boasts MLB stars such as Aaron Judge, Cal Raleigh, Bobby Witt Jr, and Paul Skenes. One group of voters believes an Italy team featuring major leaguers like Jac Caglianone and Vinnie Pasquantino will edge out Mexico for the second quarterfinal spot in their pool.
Other Predicted Pool Winners
Puerto Rico received the most votes to win their pool, with Canada also expected to advance. Experts cited a roster featuring MLB stars Nolan Arenado, Edwin Diaz, and Seth Lugo as a reason for Puerto Rico’s favouritism. Japan is the unanimous pick to win their pool. One expert believes Australia, featuring 2024 No. 1 draft pick Travis Bazzana, will be the surprise of the WBC.
The Dominican Republic is the clear favourite to win their pool, according to the experts. Their roster includes Juan Soto, Julio Rodriguez, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., and Cristopher Sanchez. Venezuela is also a unanimous pick to move on from that group. Their team includes MLB stars such as Ronald Acuna Jr., Jackson Chourio, William Contreras and Ranger Suarez.
Predicted Tournament Finalists
Many believe the United States will be the last team standing. Some experts are also predicting that the Dominican Republic will be runners-up. Others think Japan will reach the final.
- United States are the favourite to win
- Dominican Republic are also expected to do well
- Japan are in contention
There was little doubt among voters that the three superteams going into the tournament would be the final teams remaining at the end.