The 2023 World Baseball Classic (WBC) set a new benchmark for international baseball, combining record-breaking moments, electrifying games, and unforgettable performances. With anticipation building for the 2026 iteration, baseball fans worldwide are eager to see if the upcoming tournament can match or exceed its predecessor.
From Shohei Ohtani’s MVP dominance in 2023 to Trea Turner’s historic feats, we delve into what made the 2023 WBC special and how the 2026 tournament, with its expanded venues and participating teams, is shaping up to be even more spectacular.
Japan’s 2023 Triumph: A Legacy of Excellence
Shohei Ohtani’s performance in the 2023 WBC was nothing short of legendary. Leading Japan to a dramatic 3–2 victory over the United States in the championship game, Ohtani’s MVP honour solidified his status as a global baseball icon.
The defining moment came when Ohtani struck out his Los Angeles Angels teammate, Mike Trout, to clinch the title. His contributions throughout the tournament epitomised his dual-threat capabilities, inspiring players and fans alike.
The 2023 WBC captivated Japanese audiences, with a staggering 42.4% of households tuning in to watch the final despite its early morning broadcast. The quarter-final clash between Japan and Italy reached an unprecedented 48.7% rating, marking it as the most-watched game in WBC history. Japan’s passion for baseball fuelled record-breaking engagement, setting a high bar for the 2026 tournament.
Team USA’s Journey and Star Power
Trea Turner, representing Team USA, tied the WBC tournament home run record in his debut, showcasing his immense talent on the global stage. The North Carolina State University alumnus contributed crucial runs throughout the competition, cementing his place as one of the tournament’s standout players.
The WBC 2023 final attracted 5.2 million viewers across FS1, FOX Deportes, and FOX Sports streaming, a +69% increase from the 2017 final. The semi-final games saw a 96% uptick in viewership, reflecting baseball’s growing appeal in the U.S. as fans rallied behind their favourite MLB stars in international play.
Global Participation: A Showcase of Talent
The WBC uniquely blends MLB superstars with elite talent from leagues worldwide. Japan’s Kodai Senga, who shone in the 2017 WBC, is now a star pitcher for the New York Mets. The tournament provides fans with a glimpse of rising stars who may soon dominate the MLB stage, fostering global interest in the sport.
The 2023 WBC saw viewership spikes in Taiwan (+151%), Mexico (+103%), Canada (+44%), Korea (+36%), and Puerto Rico (+11%). This international enthusiasm underscores the tournament’s success in uniting fans from diverse regions under the banner of baseball.
Building Anticipation for 2026: New Venues, New Energy
The 2026 WBC will feature pool play rounds in Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo. Quarter-finals will split between Miami and Houston, with the final round in Miami. This global distribution reflects MLB’s commitment to bringing world-class baseball to diverse audiences.
Hiram Bithorn Stadium in Puerto Rico and Daikin Park in Houston are among the new venues hosting games. These stadiums are poised to deliver the electric atmosphere that defined the 2023 WBC, with fans already preparing to pack the stands.
The pools and schedule were announced on August 21:
- Pool A in Puerto Rico has Cuba, Panama, Puerto Rico, and TBD
- Pool B in Houston has the United States, Mexico, Italy, Great Britain, and TBD
- Pool C in Tokyo has Japan, Australia, South Korea, Czech Republic, and TBD
- Pool D in Miami has Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Netherlands, Israel, and TBD
Great Britain will debut on March 6, 2026 against Mexico.
Maintaining Momentum: Challenges and Opportunities
Building on the unprecedented success of 2023, the 2026 WBC faces the challenge of sustaining fan enthusiasm. Strategies include leveraging streaming platforms to reach broader audiences and enhancing fan interaction through social media campaigns.
The participation of international superstars like Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, and others will be critical in maintaining the WBC’s allure. Fans are eager to see which MLB and international talents will rise to the occasion and deliver unforgettable moments.
Merchandise and Economic Impact
Merchandise sales during the 2023 WBC set new records, with sales online and at ballparks exceeding 2017 figures by +149%. Fans eagerly snapped up team jerseys, caps, and memorabilia, a trend expected to continue in 2026.
The host cities of Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo stand to benefit economically from the influx of fans and international attention. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses anticipate a significant boost during the tournament.
The World Baseball Classic has become a global stage for fans to catch their favourite players from all over the world, delivering unforgettable moments like Japan’s dramatic victory in 2023 and Shohei Ohtani’s MVP performance. Team USA also shined with Trea Turner, an alumnus of North Carolina State University, who tied the tournament’s home run record in his debut.
As excitement builds for the next WBC, fans in the Tar Heel State can enhance their experience with North Carolina Caesars Sportsbook promos, offering unique ways to engage with the action.
A Stage Set for Greatness
The 2026 World Baseball Classic has all the elements to rival or even surpass the historic success of 2023. With record-breaking venues like Tokyo Dome and LoanDepot Park, a global lineup of star players, and the inclusion of new stadiums such as Hiram Bithorn and Daikin Park, the stage is set for an extraordinary event.
However, maintaining the unparalleled momentum of 2023—marked by Shohei Ohtani’s MVP moment and record-shattering attendance and viewership—will require exceptional efforts in marketing, fan engagement, and leveraging the global passion for baseball.
Key challenges include sustaining the unprecedented viewership spikes seen in Japan, the U.S., and other countries, as well as ensuring a competitive pool stage that mirrors the drama of 2023. If MLB and the MLBPA can capitalise on these opportunities while addressing potential hurdles, the 2026 WBC has the potential to not just shine as brightly but carve its own legacy as the pinnacle of international baseball competition.
What sets the World Baseball Classic apart is its ability to unite nations through a shared love of the game, and in 2026, the stakes are even higher to create new iconic moments for a growing global fanbase. Will it shine as bright? The answer may lie in the execution—but the foundations for another unforgettable spectacle are undeniably strong.
