Ranger Suárez to Lead Venezuela in World Baseball Classic Opener Against Netherlands
MIAMI, FL – March 2, 2026 – Boston Red Sox pitcher Ranger Suárez has been named the starting pitcher for Venezuela’s opening game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic against the Netherlands, as announced by manager Omar López.1 The game is scheduled for Friday at LoanDepot Park in Miami.
Suárez’s Recent Performance
Suárez recently made a Spring Training start with the Red Sox on Sunday, pitching three innings and allowing one run. He threw a total of 45 pitches, with 29 strikes, recording two strikeouts and allowing two hits.1
Familiar Foes in the Dutch Lineup
The Venezuelan pitcher will face several players he’s previously encountered while playing in the National League. Three Dutch players – Ozzie Albies, Jurickson Profar, and Xandor Bogaerts – are familiar to Suárez from his time competing against them in the Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres organizations.1
- Ozzie Albies: Has 9 hits in 28 at-bats against Suárez, including three home runs and 11 RBIs.1
- Jurickson Profar: Has 6 hits in 17 at-bats against Suárez, with 3 doubles and 3 RBIs.1
- Xandor Bogaerts: Has 4 hits in 10 at-bats against Suárez.1
- Chadwick Trump: Has faced Suárez twice, resulting in one strikeout and no hits.1
Other experienced hitters in the Dutch lineup include Didi Gregorius and Sharlon Schoop.1
Venezuela’s Strong Roster
Venezuela enters the tournament with a strong roster, boasting a star-studded outfield featuring Ronald Acuña Jr., Jackson Chourio, and Wilyer Abreu.1 The team also features a potent catching duo in William Contreras and Salvador Pérez.1
Pitching Depth
The Venezuelan pitching staff includes a mix of twelve current huge league starters and relievers, although it is not considered as strong as that of the United States.1 Suárez, fresh off signing a lucrative multi-year contract with the Red Sox, is expected to be a key component of the rotation.14
Pool D Schedule
Venezuela will compete in Pool D alongside the Dominican Republic, Netherlands, Israel, and Nicaragua from March 6-11 in Miami, Florida.1
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