Venezuela Debuts with Victory in the 2026 World Baseball Classic
MIAMI – The Venezuelan Baseball Team began its participation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic with a resounding victory over the Netherlands, with a score of 6-2, in the first match of Group D held at loanDepot park.
The Venezuelan team demonstrated its offensive power and secured the victory thanks to a four-run rally in the fifth inning, which made the difference in the score.
The Venezuelan offensive was led by Luis Arráez and Willson Contreras, who drove in two runs each. Javier Sanoja also had an outstanding performance, hitting a solo home run that fueled the attack.
Venezuela took the lead in the first inning, when Ronald Acuña Jr. hit a double and scored thanks to a single by Arráez against the Dutch starting pitcher Antwone Kelly.
Netherlands responded in the second episode, tying the game with a run batted in by Druw Jones that allowed Hendrik Clementina to score. However, Venezuela quickly regained the lead and extended their dominance in the fifth inning.
From the mound, the left-handed Ranger Suárez led the Venezuelan pitching work, while the bullpen maintained control of the game to secure the victory for the team led by Omar López.
With this victory, Venezuela starts off on the right foot in a competitive group that also includes the Dominican Republic, Israel, and Nicaragua.
Venezuela’s next challenge will be against Israel, while the Netherlands will seek its first victory facing Nicaragua.
