Team USA Begins Pursuit of World Baseball Classic Title Against Brazil

HOUSTON — Team USA’s quest for a World Baseball Classic championship begins Friday night at Daikin Park against Team Brazil. Manager Mark DeRosa leads a roster brimming with All-Star talent, aiming to avenge their loss to Japan in the 2023 final and secure the title.

Star-Studded Roster Takes the Field

The United States boasts a lineup featuring prominent players such as Aaron Judge, Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Cal Raleigh, Bobby Witt Jr., and Alex Bregman. Two-time All-Star Logan Webb of the San Francisco Giants will start on the mound for Team USA.

Matchup Details

How to Watch: The United States-Brazil game will be broadcast nationally on FOX.

How to Listen: A free English-language audio stream will be available for the game.

Starting Pitchers: RHP Logan Webb (USA) vs. RHP Bo Takahashi (Brazil)

What’s at Stake

For Team USA, the stakes are high. Having won the title in 2017 and finishing as runners-up in 2023, the team is eager to reclaim the championship. The roster, headlined by 2025 NL Cy Young winner Paul Skenes, has drawn significant attention.

Brazil is making its second appearance in the Classic, having last participated in 2013. They are still seeking their first win in the tournament. The team’s roster includes three players who are sons of former MLB players: Dante Bichette Jr., Joseph Contreras (son of José Contreras), and Lucas Ramirez (son of Manny Ramirez).

Historical Context

The United States and Brazil have not previously met in the World Baseball Classic.

Mark DeRosa’s Second Stint as Manager

Mark DeRosa returns as the manager of Team USA for the second consecutive World Baseball Classic, making him the first skipper to lead the team in back-to-back tournaments. He previously managed the team to a silver medal finish in 2023.