The United States is sending its strongest team ever to the 2026 World Baseball Classic, aiming to redeem themselves after falling to three-time champion Japan in the 2023 final. However, both teams will face fierce competition in the pool stage, which promises to be the most intense and diverse round in the tournament’s history.
Here are eight pool stage games you can pre-order to watch on FOX, FS1, FS2, the FOX Sports app, FOX One, and Tubi:
USA vs. Brazil (March 6, 8 p.m. ET on FOX)
The U.S. will kick off the tournament against Brazil, returning for its first appearance since 2013. Brazil secured their spot by winning the preliminary round 3-1 and defeating Germany 6-4. Veteran infielder Leonardo Reginat is Brazil’s key player, having impressed with three doubles and four RBIs during qualifying.
UK vs. USA (March 7, 8 p.m. ET on FOX)
Jazz Chisholm Jr., representing Great Britain, will face familiar American stars, including Yankees teammates Aaron Judge and David Bednar, plus two New York Mets players, Nolan McLean and Clayton Holmes.
Japan vs. South Korea (March 7, 5 a.m. ET on FS1)
This longstanding rivalry will continue at the Tokyo Dome. Japan dominated their last matchup 13-4 in 2023, led by MVP Shohei Ohtani. South Korea, however, fields a rising star in 22-year-old Kim Do-young, who earned the 2024 KBO MVP after an outstanding season.
Netherlands vs. Dominican Republic (March 8, noon on FS2)
Dominican Republic, with top-tier talent like Mets star Juan Soto, has the third-best odds to win the Classic despite an early exit in 2023. Soto shone last time with six hits and two home runs over 15 at-bats.
Cuba vs. Puerto Rico (March 9, 7 p.m. ET on FS1)
This matchup could determine who advances from the competitive Pool A, featuring Canada, Panama, and Colombia. Puerto Rico’s Los Angeles ace Edwin Diaz will pitch, while eight-time All-Star Nolan Arenado will play for the U.S., making his Classic debut in Puerto Rico.
Mexico vs. United States (March 9, 8 p.m. ET on FOX)
To top Pool B, the U.S. must overcome Mexico, a historic rival led by Mariners star Randy Arozarena. Mexico went 3-1 in pool play in 2023 and even outscored the U.S. by 27 points before falling to Japan in the semifinals.
USA vs. Italy (March 10, 9 p.m. ET on FS1)
Though not a favorite in 2026, Italy surprised many in 2023 by reaching the quarterfinals. Now led by 2009 World Series champion Francisco Cervelli, Italy looks stronger and will test the U.S.’s dominance.
Dominican Republic vs. Venezuela (March 11, 8 p.m. ET on FS1)
This is the only clash between two top-five favorites during pool play. Venezuela finished unbeaten in the 2023 pool stage and defeated the Dominican Republic 5-1 but fell in the quarterfinals to the U.S. Trea Turner’s Grand Slam sealed that win, and fans will be eager to see if stars like Ronaldo Acuña Jr. can turn the tide this year.
Fan Take:
This highly competitive World Baseball Classic pool stage showcases the global growth and increasing talent depth of baseball, making it essential viewing for fans worldwide. The fierce international rivalries and breakout stars could redefine the sport’s future by sparking worldwide enthusiasm and elevating baseball’s international profile.
