From March 6–11, 2026, the World Baseball Classic will bring the world’s best teams to the Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan. For six exciting days, Puerto Rico won’t just host this major event; it will compete with pride. You’ll feel it in the cheers, the energy, and the warm Caribbean air, as the Island's top players step onto the field.
As in previous years, Puerto Rico’s 2026 roster brings power, heart, and strong talent. In fact, it may have the strongest pitching players in Puerto Rico’s Classic history, along with a lineup ready to rise the moment, says local sports journalist Jarniel Canales. “For baseball players, the World Baseball Classic is like their own Olympics,” he adds.
Stadiums around the Island are grand slam locations where you can catch a baseball game.
World Baseball Classic
The World Baseball Classic returns to Puerto Rico from returns from March 6 to 11, 2026, bringing elite international competition to Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan. Feel the crack of the bat, hear the roar of the crowd, and share in the pride that makes this one of baseball’s most iconic settings, as top teams take the field on home soil.
In 2017, the Puerto Rico national baseball team was christened "Team Rubio" when all the players dyed their hair blonde. (Carlos Giusti | El Nuevo Día.)
Meet The Players
Edwin “Sugar” Díaz
Born in Naguabo, he is one of baseball’s most electric closers. When he steps on the mound, the noise grows. His fastball is fierce, and his energy lifts the entire team. If Puerto Rico holds a late lead, Díaz is the one trusted to finish it. He led the American League with 57 saves in 2018, earned multiple All-Star selections, and signed a record-breaking contract as a relief pitcher.
José Berríos
He is the only active player who represented Puerto Rico at the last Classic held at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in 2013. If he joins the team in the later rounds, his experience could make a big difference and add even more depth to the pitching staff.
Heliot Ramos
This outfielder from the town of Maunabo brings speed, strength, and confidence. With the San Francisco Giants, he batted .269 with 22 home runs and 72 RBIs, earning his first MLB All-Star selection. He even became the first right-handed hitter to splash a home run into McCovey Cove at Oracle Park. Ramos represents a new chapter of fearless Boricua baseball.
Boricuas will often bring instruments like “palitos,” “güiros,” or “pleneros” to cheer on their favorite local baseball team. (Discover Puerto Rico.)
Seth Lugo
Arenado proudly represents his Boricua heritage through his mother’s family and brings both leadership and power to Team Puerto Rico. A 10 time Gold Glove third baseman, he can change the game with a single swing or a spectacular play in the field.
Nolan Arenado
Arenado honors his Boricua roots through his mother’s family, will also bring leadership and power to the Puerto Rico team. A 10-time Gold Glove third baseman, he can change the game with one swing or one incredible play.