Venezuela Debuts with Triumph in the 2026 World Baseball Classic
Miami – The Venezuelan National 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 played at loanDepot park.
The Venezuelan team cemented their triumph thanks to a four-run rally in the fifth inning, which marked a turning point in the game.
The Venezuelan offense shone, highlighting the performances of Luis Arráez and Willson Contreras, who drove in two runs each. Javier Sanoja also had an outstanding performance, hitting a home run that boosted the team’s attack.
Venezuela took the lead from the start of the game. Ronald Acuña Jr. hit a double in the first inning, and later scored thanks to a single by Arráez against the starting pitcher of the Netherlands, Antwone Kelly.
Netherlands responded in the second inning, tying the game with an RBI by Druw Jones. However, Venezuela quickly regained the lead and extended their dominance with their offense in the fifth inning.
In the mound, left-handed pitcher Ranger Suárez led the Venezuelan pitching work. The bullpen maintained control of the game to secure the victory for the team led by Omar López in the tournament.
With this victory, Venezuela starts off on the right foot in a competitive group, where the Dominican Republic, Israel, and Nicaragua also compete.
Venezuela’s next challenge will be against Israel. Netherlands will seek its first victory facing Nicaragua.
