The World Baseball Classic (WBC) has returned to bring together top Major League Baseball players representing their countries in an international tournament. Organized by Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association, the event features professional players representing their home nations.
“Baseball started this tournament to do just that, to grow it and to have a signature event every three years, kind of like their World Cup or Olympics,” said School of Communication, Media, and the Arts (SCMA) Prof. John Barnes. “Fans can develop a rooting interest in their country and then follow those players in Major League Baseball.”
The WBC is a tournament style competition made up of 20 national teams divided into four pools with respective venues. The 2026 Classic kicked off on March 4 and stretches to the upcoming championship game on March 17 in Miami, Fla.
run during the third inning of a World Baseball Classic game against the Netherlands, Sunday, March 8, 2026, in
Miami.
Source: Rebecca Blackwell, AP Photo
Since it began in 2006, the competition has grown significantly in popularity. A major factor to this growth is the nationalism culture within sports fans.
“The Classic is also covered differently by the media than the regular season. While U.S. audiences often watch through the lens of national pride, fans from other countries follow their favorite players from different teams,” said Barnes. “Bringing them together on one team for their nation is a great way to unify fans.”
Patriotism is also demonstrated throughout the professional athletes. This pride adds a new dimension to watching the Classic.
“Players competing for their country share a passion and style of play that is great to showcase,” said Barnes.
“The passion that the players have for the country they represent, this is not a job to them but an achievement,” said sophomore Nick Frey.
The energy of the Classic is great for Major League Baseball to learn from.
“I like how every team brings its own approach and energy,” said junior Christopher Horvath. “Adding that it’s fun to watch stars from Major League Baseball show pride in their home countries.”
“You can just feel how much the players care,” said sophomore Harrison Kennedy. “Even if it’s just spring training MLB, the WBC makes the games feel intense and important.”
“The World Baseball Classic is great for the growth of baseball,” said Frey. “It’s an exciting event that brings people together, showcases top talent, and reminds fans why they love the game.”
