The World Baseball Classic arrives in Arizona on Friday, March 6, 2026, with a clash of contrasts. The United States, the current runner-up and loaded with MLB superstars, will face a Brazilian team that has surprised the world after overcoming the qualifying rounds with aggressive play and impeccable defense
Although on paper it looks like a one-sided duel, Brazil arrives with the motivation to spring the biggest surprise in the history of the tournament in front of a crowd that expects to see the offensive power of the hosts.
Broadcast schedule and channels in USA
As it is played in Phoenix, the schedule is ideal for fans throughout the Americas.
- Date: Friday, March 6, 2026.
- Time: 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT.
- Television (English): FS1 (Fox Sports 1).
- Television (English): Fox Deportes.
- Streaming: Fox Sports App, FuboTV and Hulu + Live TV.
Rosters and players to watch
Team USA
Manager Mark DeRosa has a lineup that looks like an All-Star Game.
- Captain: Mookie Betts leads the batting order after a historic season in 2025.
- Starting pitcher: Logan Webb is expected to take the mound, looking to neutralize the Brazilian contact.
- Power: Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge are confirmed in the heart of the lineup.
Team Brazil
Brazil is banking on the experience of its veterans and the talent of its minor league prospects.
- Leader: Yan Gomes, the first Brazilian in MLB, acts as the emotional and tactical guide for the team behind the plate.
- Pitcher: Andre Rienzo leads a rotation that relies on precision rather than speed.
- Prospect: Eric Pardinho remains the key piece in the bullpen to close out tight games.
3 Key facts about the match
USA’s unbeaten streak: The United States has not lost an opening round game at home since the 2017 edition.
Brazilian roots: Brazil has several players with Japanese ancestry (Nikkei), which gives them a very technical style of play, similar to the Asian style.
Chase Field: The Arizona stadium is usually favorable for power hitters, which directly benefits the Americans’ heavy artillery.
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