The 2026 World Baseball Classic promises to be a thrilling tournament, filled with intense international matchups. However, with games spread across different time zones, fans will need to plan ahead for the best viewing experience. Whether you’re a night owl or an early riser, you’ll want to set your alarms or adjust your bedtime to catch the most exciting moments. To make sure you don’t miss out, we’ve compiled a list of the top matchups each day during pool play, as well as some key contests to watch in the later stages of the tournament.
Pool Play Highlights: Must-Watch Games
March 4, Chinese Taipei vs. Australia - 10 p.m. ET on FS1
The World Baseball Classic kicks off with an exciting match between Chinese Taipei and Australia in Pool C. While neither team is considered a favorite to win the tournament, the anticipation surrounding the start of the event makes this an unmissable game. The energy of the opening day alone is reason enough to tune in and enjoy the action.
March 5, Czechia vs. Republic of Korea - 5 a.m. ET on FS1
Korea is one of the stronger teams in Pool C and certainly a contender in the tournament. While they may not be on the level of powerhouses like Team USA or Japan, they have the talent to challenge the best. This early morning game also gives fans the chance to see the Czechia squad, which will provide some intriguing moments of its own.
March 6, United States vs. Brazil - 8 p.m. ET on FOX
Team USA takes the field for the first time in the tournament against Brazil, one of the biggest underdogs this year. With a star-studded roster, including Aaron Judge and Tarik Skubal, the United States enters the game as the favorite to win the entire tournament. Don’t miss this primetime matchup.
March 7, Republic of Korea vs. Japan - 5 a.m. ET on FS1
Japan, the favorite in Pool C, faces its toughest competition in the Republic of Korea. Even though Shohei Ohtani won’t be pitching, his presence at the plate is always a spectacle, and the game also provides an opportunity to see new MLB stars like Munetaka Murakami and Kazuma Okamoto in action for the defending WBC champions.
Key Matchups: Can’t-Miss Games as the Tournament Progresses
March 8, Colombia vs. Cuba - 12 p.m. ET on FOX
Although neither Colombia nor Cuba are expected to be major contenders, both teams can still cause upsets in the tournament. This game is crucial for both sides as they look to advance beyond pool play. Anything can happen in a tournament format, and a win here could be the key to extending their time in the competition.
March 9, Dominican Republic vs. Israel - 12 p.m. ET on FS1
The Dominican Republic's lineup is loaded with stars, including Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Manny Machado, and Juan Soto. Israel will have a tough task ahead, but upsets can happen, and this matchup promises to be an exciting display of baseball.
March 10, Canada vs. Puerto Rico - 7 p.m. ET on Tubi
For Canada to make it out of pool play, this late-stage matchup against Puerto Rico is a must-win. With players like Josh Naylor and Denzel Clarke leading the charge, Canada will have to bring their A-game against Puerto Rico’s strong squad.
March 11, Dominican Republic vs. Venezuela - 8 p.m. ET on FS1
This matchup could potentially feature two of the top teams in the tournament. The Dominican Republic boasts an impressive roster, but Venezuela, with stars like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Salvador Pérez, will be a formidable opponent. Expect this to be an intense showdown with significant implications for the tournament’s future.
Quarterfinals: The Road to Victory
March 13, Pool A Runner-Up (Canada) vs. Pool B Winner (United States) - 8 p.m. ET on FOX
While Canada has plenty of talent, they’ll face a tough challenge in the United States’ pitching staff, which is among the best in the tournament. This game could be a showcase of dominance or, perhaps, an exciting upset. Either way, it promises to be a thrilling spectacle.
March 14, Pool D Runner-Up (Venezuela) vs. Pool A Winner (Japan) - 9 p.m. ET on FOX
Assuming Japan wins Pool A and the Dominican Republic takes Pool D, Venezuela will face the defending champions, Japan, in a high-stakes quarterfinal. While Venezuela is an underdog, the team has the talent to compete in what will likely be a hard-fought match.
Semifinals: High Stakes Baseball
March 15, Quarterfinal Winner (Puerto Rico) vs. Quarterfinal Winner (United States) - 8 p.m. ET on FS1
If Puerto Rico takes the top spot in Pool A, they will face the winner of the potential United States-Canada quarterfinal matchup. This game will be filled with star power, and regardless of which teams make it through, it will be a spectacle to watch.
March 16, Quarterfinal Winner (Japan) vs. Quarterfinal Winner (Dominican Republic) - 8 p.m. ET on FS1
The Dominican Republic has one of the most dangerous lineups in the tournament, and Japan will need to rely on their strong pitching to hold off this offensive powerhouse. It’s bound to be one of the most exciting games of the tournament.
Championship Game: A Rematch for the Ages
March 17, Semifinal Winner (United States) vs. Semifinal Winner (Japan) - 8 p.m. ET on FOX
A rematch of the 2023 World Baseball Classic final, this game features the United States and Japan, two of the most successful teams in recent history. With Shohei Ohtani potentially back in action, and the USA boasting a deep roster, this game is set to be a thrilling finale to the tournament. Will the U.S. take the crown, or will Japan defend its title once again?
The 2026 World Baseball Classic is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, filled with intense matchups from start to finish. Whether you're waking up early or staying up late, you won’t want to miss the thrilling action. Mark your calendars for the key games and get ready to witness some of the best international baseball the world has to offer.
