Netherlands vs. Venezuela: World Baseball Classic Pool D Opener

MIAMI — Pool D of the 2026 World Baseball Classic kicks off Friday at loanDepot park with a matchup between the Netherlands and Venezuela. Both teams are aiming for one of the two coveted quarterfinal spots.

How to Watch and Listen

Fans can enjoy a free English-language audio stream for every game of the World Baseball Classic.

Probable Pitchers

The Netherlands will send right-handed pitcher Antwone Kelly to the mound, although Venezuela will counter with left-hander Ranger Suarez.

What’s at Stake

Venezuela, boasting a roster filled with stars like Ronald Acuña Jr., Salvador Perez, and Jackson Chourio, is considered a strong contender to advance from Pool D, alongside the Dominican Republic. The Netherlands, managed by Hall of Famer Andruw Jones and featuring players such as Xander Bogaerts, Ozzie Albies, and Ceddanne Rafaela, intends to present a formidable challenge.

Matchup History

Venezuela holds a 3-1 victory over the Netherlands in their only previous World Baseball Classic encounter, which took place in the second round of the 2009 tournament. Miguel Cabrera, now the hitting coach for Venezuela, sealed the win with a fourth-inning home run.

Pool D Schedule

Pool D games are being played at loanDepot park in Miami, Florida. The pool also includes the Dominican Republic, Israel, and Nicaragua.