With the ’ World Series celebration now behind us, attention turns to the upcoming World Baseball Classic. The sixth edition of this international tournament, set for March 2026 and airing on FOX and its partner networks, will showcase 20 countries and territories, featuring top players eager to prove their nations as the best in professional baseball.
DraftKings Sportsbook released its initial odds on November 18th, highlighting the favorites and contenders for the title. The United States is favored at +160, followed by Japan at +290. The Dominican Republic stands at +425, and Puerto Rico is listed at +900. Other notable odds include Venezuela (+1400), Mexico (+1800), South Korea (+2500), and the Netherlands (+3000). Teams like Italy, Cuba, Canada, and Colombia are at +4000, while lower odds are given to Panama (+6000), Israel, Australia, and Chinese Taipei (+8000), with the UK, Czech Republic, Nicaragua, and Brazil at +10000.
Regarding the top contenders, the U.S. and Japan maintain their strong rivalry. In 2023, Japan narrowly defeated the U.S. 3-2 in an intense final, highlighted by Shohei Ohtani striking out his Angels teammate Mike Trout in the last at-bat, securing Japan’s third title. The U.S., champion in 2017, has a strong lineup commitment from stars like Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh, while Japan might feature Ohtani, World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and closer Aki Sasaki.
Puerto Rico, sitting fourth on the odds board, will face the Classic without key player Quique Hernandez due to elbow surgery. Puerto Rico has a strong history, finishing as runner-up in 2017 and 2013 tournaments.
Fan Take: The World Baseball Classic is not just a tournament—it’s a showcase of baseball’s global talent and passion. For fans, it offers thrilling international rivalries and stories that enrich the sport’s appeal worldwide, potentially boosting baseball’s growth and popularity in new regions.
