Mexico Debuts with a Commanding Victory in the 2026 World Baseball Classic
HOUSTON – The Mexican national team began its participation in Group B of the 2026 World Baseball Classic with a convincing 8-2 victory over Great Britain, in a match held at Daikin Park.
The game, which maintained tension until the final innings, saw Jonathan Aranda emerge as the key figure. A three-run home run hit by Aranda in the eighth inning broke the tie and led Mexico towards victory.
Aranda’s hit, which traveled 346 feet, came against a 96.8 mph pitch from reliever Tristan Beck, also driving in Jarren Duran and Randy Arozarena, who had previously received walks.
This home run was the turning point of the game. Mexico continued its attack in the ninth inning, adding four more runs to extend the lead and secure its first victory in the tournament.
Aranda, the Tampa Bay Rays’ starting player, arrives at the tournament at an excellent moment, after an outstanding 2025 season, where he achieved a batting average of .315 and hit 14 home runs in the Major Leagues.
Mexico had taken the lead early in the game thanks to a solo home run by Nacho Álvarez Jr. in the second inning, against pitcher Jack Anderson. Great Britain responded in the sixth inning, when catcher Harry Ford tied the score with a home run against Alex Carrillo.
The next challenge for Mexico will be on Sunday night against the Brazilian national team, again at Daikin Park, seeking to consolidate their position with a 2-0 record in the group.
For its part, Great Britain will seek to recover in its next match against the United States selection on Saturday.
