Ranking all 20 WBC teams, from the sure things to the Cinderellas to the seedlings
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- The 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) promises high-quality international baseball with teams sorted into five tiers based on their championship prospects, ranging from "Juggernauts" to teams fighting for survival in the tournament.
- Tier I features the top contenders Japan, the United States, and the Dominican Republic, all boasting star-studded rosters with MLB All-Stars and previous WBC champions, with Japan entering confidently after recent World Series success.
- Tier II includes serious contenders like Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and others who have strong rosters and potential to win but lack a few key players compared to Tier I teams.
- Tier III and IV consist of competitive teams like Canada, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, Chinese Taipei, Australia
