Team USA’s got Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes locked in for the World Baseball Classic, and that’s a rotation nobody else can match.
But when it comes to hitting? The Dominican Republic might have something to say about that.
We’re still three months out from the tournament, but the D.R. lineup that’s taking shape is absolutely loaded. Based on what we know about confirmed participants heading into the new year, here’s how that batting order could look:
- Fernando Tatis Jr., RF
- Juan Soto, LF
- Jose Ramirez, DH
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr., 1B
- Manny Machado, 3B
- Julio Rodriguez, CF
- Ketel Marte, 2B
- Yainer Diaz, C
- Geraldo Perdomo, SS
That’s a lineup that can compete with anybody.
You could arrange those names about a dozen different ways and still end up with something that’ll give opposing pitchers nightmares. Tatis and Soto at the top sets the tone, while Ramirez and Guerrero provide the middle-of-the-order thump.
The pitching side is where things get interesting. Sandy Alcantara is probably their ace, which puts them a step behind what Team USA’s bringing to the table. That means the offense would need to carry the load in any potential knockout matchup.
But here’s the thing – it’s March baseball. Pitch counts are limited, starters aren’t stretched out, and these tournaments often come down to who can manufacture runs against relievers and spot starters.
That Dominican Republic lineup might be more than enough to get the job done.
