The Dominican Republic team is another of the great representatives that we can confidently place among the favorites to win the 2026 World Baseball Classic. While Team Japan-with Shohei Ohtani-and Team USA steal most of the attention, it is Fernando Tatis Jr. who sends a clear warning on behalf of his nation ahead of the WBC 2026.
What did Fernando Tatis Jr. say?
Just a few days before the international competition kicks off, Tatis Jr. spoke to Yancel Pujols about the other teams considered “favorites” in the World Baseball Classic, making it clear that Ohtani is the best player in the world-though he doesn’t play all nine positions-so everyone should beware of the Dominican Republic roster.
“Credit where credit is due. Shohei Ohtani is the best player in the world right now. But even he can’t play all nine positions or bat nine times in a game. It’s a team sport. Honestly, with the team we have, I’m not afraid of anyone. My respect to them (Team Japan). I give them full respect and honor where it’s deserved. Team USA is undeniably stacked too, but Team DR carries unmatched preparation, a relentless work ethic, and we leave almost no flaws on the field,” were his words.
The Dominican Republic national baseball team will seek to improve on the version they showed in the last editions of the WBC. After winning the title in 2013, the Dominicans were eliminated in the second round in 2017 and didn’t advance past the group stage in 2023.
It’s clear that something has to change if they want to reclaim the World Baseball Classic crown. To lift the trophy, they will likely have to overcome Japan and Shohei Ohtani in the final stages, or defeat Team USA, reviving a rivalry that Fernando Tatis Jr. maintains at the MLB level-especially when the San Diego Padres face the Los Angeles Dodgers, where stars like Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto await.
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