Pool D Preview: Dominican Republic, Venezuela Lead Competitive World Baseball Classic Group
The 2026 World Baseball Classic is underway, and whereas Pool C has already begun play, attention now turns to Pool D, arguably the most talent-rich group in the tournament. Featuring a concentration of MLB stars, Pool D promises intense competition as teams battle for a spot in the knockout stage. Games will be played in Miami, creating a vibrant atmosphere with strong Caribbean and Latin American representation.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic boasts a lineup that rivals any other in the tournament. The team’s roster includes Austin Wells, Geraldo Perdomo, Cristopher Sánchez, Sandy Alcantara, Brayan Bello, and Luis Severino. Yankee Camilo Doval, Albert Abreu, and Seranthony Domínguez are expected to play key roles in the bullpen.
However, the Dominican Republic has something to prove. They failed to advance from the group stage in 2023, a disappointing result for a baseball-mad nation. New manager Albert Pujols will be tasked with uniting a team full of stars and avenging that ’23 disappointment.
Venezuela
Venezuela, the winners of their group in 2023, are entering this tournament ranked fifth in the world. The team’s lineup is headlined by Ronald Acuña Jr., Salvador Perez, Eugenio Suárez, Jackson Chourio, Gleyber Torres, and the Contreras brothers. Ranger Suárez and Eduardo Rodríguez will lead the pitching staff, though they will be without the injured Pablo López.
The marquee matchup of Pool D will be Venezuela against the Dominican Republic, with the winner likely taking the group lead. Venezuela has a history of strong performances, finishing third in 2009, and this year’s team is considered their best yet.
The Netherlands
Managed by newly-minted Hall of Famer Andruw Jones, the Netherlands draws many of its best players from the Antilles, particularly Aruba and Curaçao. Druw Jones, Andruw’s son, will make his WBC debut. The Netherlands has had past success, with upset wins over the Dominican Republic in 2009 and fourth-place finishes in 2013 and 2017, but failed to advance from the group stage in 2023.
Kenley Jansen and Xander Bogaerts will lead the team, with Ceddanne Rafaela providing strong outfield defense. Ozzie Albies and Didi Gregorius round out the infield.
Israel
Appearing in its third WBC, Israel features a roster primarily composed of American players with Jewish heritage. The team struggled in 2023, winning only one game. Harrison Bader, Tommy Kahnle, and Matt Bowman are on the 2026 roster, with Dean Kremer leading the rotation. Brad Ausmus is managing the team, with Kevin Youkilis serving as the hitting coach.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua is considered the underdog of the group, having qualified for the tournament with a stunning win over Chinese Taipei in the final of the qualifying tournament. The team features some promising pitching talent, and the addition of Mark Vientos will bolster their lineup. Dusty Baker will manage the team, and a win for Nicaragua would be a significant step forward for baseball development in the country.