Puerto Rico's World Baseball Classic Roster: A Mix of Familiar Faces and New Talent!
Puerto Rico has consistently delivered thrilling performances in the World Baseball Classic, and this year is no exception! While some of their most recognizable stars might be absent, the team is still poised to be a formidable contender. Let's dive into who's representing the island and when you can catch them in action.
A Look Back and a Glimpse Forward:
Remember the 2017 World Baseball Classic? Puerto Rico made an incredible run, ultimately falling to the United States in the finals with a score of 8-0. Fast forward to 2023, and their journey ended in a nail-biting 5-4 quarterfinal loss to Mexico. The most indelible image from that tournament, however, was the unfortunate injury to closer Edwin Díaz. He tore his ACL while celebrating a crucial strikeout against the Dominican Republic, a moment that sent Puerto Rico into the knockout rounds but tragically ended his tournament.
The Return of a Star and Notable Absences:
Great news for baseball fans! Edwin Díaz, who recently signed a significant three-year, $69 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, is set to return to the mound for Puerto Rico. However, the team will be without some key players, most notably former captain Francisco Lindor. This year, several prominent players across various national teams are unable to participate due to insurance restrictions. It's a complex issue that has impacted team compositions globally. Interestingly, Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny even offered to cover the insurance for Carlos Correa, but the infielder ultimately decided not to play.
A New Addition to the Lineup:
With some familiar faces missing, the door has opened for Nolan Arenado to join the Puerto Rican squad. Arenado, who previously represented Team USA in 2017 and 2023, has strong ties to Puerto Rico through his mother's heritage. He was a crucial player in the USA's 2023 run to the finals, boasting an impressive batting average of .385 with 10 hits in 26 at-bats, including four extra-base hits and five RBIs.
Get Ready for the Action!
Puerto Rico is gearing up for its first exhibition game against the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. ET. Here's a comprehensive look at Team Rubio's full roster and their upcoming schedule:
Puerto Rico World Baseball Classic Roster:
Pitchers:
* Raymond Burgos, LHP, free agent
* Fernando Cruz, RHP, New York Yankees
* José De León, RHP, free agent
* Edwin Díaz, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers
* Jose Espada, RHP, Baltimore Orioles
* Rico Garcia, RHP, Baltimore Orioles
* Seth Lugo, Kansas City Royals
* Jorge López, RHP, free agent
* Jovani Morán, LHP, Boston Red Sox
* Luis Quiñones, RHP, Minnesota Twins
* Angel Reyes, RHP
* Eduardo Rivera, LHP, Boston Red Sox
* Gabriel Rodriguez, LHP, New York Mets
* Elmer Rodríguez, RHP, New York Yankees
* Yacksel Ríos, RHP, Chicago Cubs
* Ricardo Velez, RHP, Texas Rangers
Catchers:
* Martín Maldonado, retired
* Christian Vázquez, free agent
Infielders:
* Nolan Arenado, Arizona Diamondbacks
* Edwin Arroyo, Cincinnati Reds
* Darnell Hernaiz, Athletics
* Emmanuel Rivera, free agent
* Luis Vázquez, Baltimore Orioles
Outfielders:
* Willi Castro, Colorado Rockies
* Carlos Cortes, Athletics
* Matthew Lugo, Los Angeles Angels
* MJ Melendez, New York Mets
* Heliot Ramos, San Francisco Giants
* Eddie Rosario, free agent
* Bryan Torres, St. Louis Cardinals
How to Watch Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic: Full Schedule
Here's the schedule for Puerto Rico's pool play games:
- Friday, March 6: 6:00 p.m. ET - Puerto Rico at Colombia; Hiram Bithorn Stadium, San Juan, PR; Fox Sports 1
- Saturday, March 7: 6:00 p.m. ET - Panama at Puerto Rico; Hiram Bithorn Stadium, San Juan, PR; Fox Sports 1
- Monday, March 9: 7:00 p.m. ET - Cuba at Puerto Rico; Hiram Bithorn Stadium, San Juan, PR; Fox Sports 1
- Tuesday, March 10: 7:00 p.m. ET - Canada at Puerto Rico; Hiram Bithorn Stadium, San Juan, PR; Tubi
What do you think about this year's Puerto Rican roster? Are you excited to see Nolan Arenado in a new uniform? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
