Nolan Arenado made it official in January — he’s switching sides for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. After helping Team USA win it all in 2017 and reach the finals in 2023, the new Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman will suit up for Puerto Rico this time around.
The decision comes down to family heritage and a personal invitation that was tough to refuse. Arenado’s mother, Millie, has Puerto Rican and Cuban roots, and Puerto Rico’s 2026 manager happens to be his former Cardinals teammate Yadier Molina.
Nolan Arenado por primera vez con #LosNuestros#WorldBaseballClassic pic.twitter.com/OTr7TADC1b
— Federación de Béisbol (@BeisbolPR) January 27, 2026
But here’s the thing — Arenado wasn’t exactly planning on making the switch initially. He was ready to decline Molina’s offer until his family, especially his mom, changed his mind.
“I wanted to play for USA again, but I didn’t get the call. Honestly, I didn’t deserve the call. And when Yadi called me about it, I felt a little hesitant about it because I played on USA, and I was recovering from a shoulder surgery. But my mom really wanted me to do it, and my family kept telling me to do it.”
That shoulder surgery reference is telling. Arenado’s coming off a procedure that clearly affected his availability, which probably explains why Team USA didn’t reach out this time. No hard feelings there.
He’s Not the First to Switch
Arenado isn’t breaking new ground with this move. Marcus Stroman did the exact same thing — won tournament MVP for the U.S. in 2017, then played for Puerto Rico in 2023. It’s becoming more common as players explore their heritage and family connections.
“I’m looking forward to it, and looking forward to playing in Puerto Rico,” Arenado said recently, per MLB.com. “Obviously, representing my Latin heritage that I got. My family’s very excited about it. … I never was asked by USA, so I don’t feel guilt there.”
His entire family plans to be in Puerto Rico for the first round, which adds another layer to why this decision makes sense for him personally.
What He Brings to Puerto Rico
Arenado’s track record in WBC play speaks for itself. In 2017, he delivered five hits including a home run as Team USA captured the championship. His 2023 performance was even better — he tied for the team lead with 10 total hits, added three doubles and drove in five runs as the U.S. reached the finals before falling to Japan.
The 35-year-old has already announced that 2026 will be his final WBC appearance, per USA Today, so he’s looking to go out on a high note.
Puerto Rico’s Supporting Cast
While Arenado will be Puerto Rico’s biggest MLB star, he won’t be alone. The roster includes some solid major league talent:
- Eddie Rosario brings veteran outfield experience
- Heliot Ramos from the Giants adds another outfield option
- Willi Castro provides versatility across multiple positions
- Martin Maldonado anchors things behind the plate
The pitching staff gets a boost from Seth Lugo and closer Edwin Diaz, both proven MLB arms.
It’s worth noting that Carlos Correa was originally set to join the team but had to withdraw due to insurance complications — a reminder of how tricky these international tournaments can be for star players.
Pool D Schedule
Puerto Rico will face a competitive group in Pool D, with games kicking off in early March:
| Date | Opponent | Time (ET) | TV (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 6 | Colombia | 6 p.m. | FS1 |
| March 7 | Panama | 6 p.m. | FS1 |
| March 9 | Cuba | 7 p.m. | FS1 |
| March 10 | Canada | 7 p.m. | Tubi |
The Cuba matchup should be particularly intense, given the regional rivalry and baseball tradition between the two islands. With Molina managing and Arenado anchoring the hot corner, Puerto Rico has the pieces to make some noise in what could be a wide-open tournament.
