RD vs Detroit at Quisqueya: 2026 World Baseball Classic and Tribute

RD vs. Detroit Tigers: Exhibition Series in Santo Domingo Prior to the World Baseball Classic

The Dominican Republic National Team will face the Detroit Tigers in a two-game friendly series on March 3rd and 4th, 2026. This event will take place at the Quisqueya Juan Marichal Stadium in Santo Domingo, as part of the preparation for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The official announcement was made during the Winter Baseball Meetings, marking a milestone in Dominican baseball history.

An Event with a Charitable Cause

This series of matches will be dedicated to honoring the memory of the victims of the April 8, 2025 tragedy in Santo Domingo. The funds raised will be allocated to the Dominican Red Cross.

Key Figures in the Announcement

The announcement featured the presence of prominent baseball figures, including:

• Robert D. Manfred, Jr., MLB Commissioner
• Nelson Cruz, General Manager of the Dominican Republic National Team
• Albert Pujols, Manager of the Dominican Republic Team
• Kelvin Cruz, Minister of Sports

The initiative arose from a proposal by Nelson Cruz, who had the support of Commissioner Manfred and President Luis Abinader.

Highlighted Statements

“The tragedy deeply affected the country and many members of the Baseball Family. These games allow us to honor those lives and support the Dominican Red Cross. We appreciate the leadership of President Abinader and Nelson Cruz for making this possible, as well as the Detroit Tigers for participating.”

Robert D. Manfred, Jr., MLB Commissioner

“I thank MLB and President Abinader for their support of an event that allows us to unite as a country, honor those affected, and show what baseball represents for our nation.”

Nelson Cruz, general manager of Team RD

“Baseball is an essential part of our identity. These games not only prepare the team for the Classic, but also allow us to pay tribute to the victims and support a humanitarian cause.”

Kelvin Cruz, Minister of Sports

“It’s an honor to compete in the Dominican Republic and participate in such a significant event. We hope this series brings comfort and joy, while raising funds for those who need it most.”

Scott Harris, President of Baseball Operations for the Detroit Tigers

This will be the first time the Dominican Republic National Team receives a Major League club in the country for exhibition games. MLB and UEPA will make donations to the Dominican Red Cross as part of the event’s social commitment.

Road to the 2026 World Baseball Classic

The Dominican Republic National Team will begin its participation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic on March 6, facing Nicaragua in Miami, within Group D. Dominican Republic is the undefeated champion of the 2013 World Baseball Classic and remains the foreign country with the most players on MLB Opening Day rosters, with 100 players in 2025.