Ohtani and Yamamoto lead Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic

Japan reveals its roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic

The Japanese baseball team has officially announced its team for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, marking a milestone with the inclusion of eight Major League players. The announcement, made by manager Hirokazu Ibata, highlights the combination of international stars and local talent with the aim of defending the title won in 2023. Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, key figures in the previous victory, lead the list of those called up. The team also includes Munetaka Murakami, Kazuma Okamoto, and Seiya Suzuki, who was unable to participate in the previous edition due to an injury. There is still one position to be confirmed to complete the final roster.

Representing Japan again is an honor and a great responsibility. I have worked intensely to arrive in the best possible condition and, together with my teammates and the coaching staff, we will fight for the highest.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto

Among the most notable absences are Roki Sasaki and Lars Nootbaar. The Japanese team will have 15 players who were part of the 2023 champion squad, which provides a solid base of continuity, depth, and international experience.

Preparation and Calendar

The players of the Japanese league will hold a training camp in Miyazaki from February 14 to 24, prior to the Samurai Japan Series, which will begin on February 27. Major League players will join the team starting with the exhibition games scheduled for March 2 in Osaka. Japan, three-time World Baseball Classic champion (2006, 2009, and 2023), will compete in Group C alongside Australia, South Korea, Czech Republic, and Chinese Taipei, and will debut on March 6 against Chinese Taipei at the Tokyo Dome.