This Monday, the National Team held its first practice heading to the World Baseball Classic 2026when jumping onto the field at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers, Florida, spring training complex of the Boston Red Sox.
World Baseball Classic 2026
Group A (San Juan) presented by Discover Puerto Rico
Group B (Houston) and Group D (Miami) presented by Capital One
Under the direction of Yadier Molina, the Puerto Rican team worked for several hours on fundamental aspects of the game, marking the formal start of preparation prior to the start of the tournament in San Juan.
“Very happy with what I have seen from the boys. They have been very positive and the practice was super good. We have a goal, to go out strong every day, compete and try to win that championship. Preparation is very important. Touch the fundamentals, make sure the boys are well. I think that preparation is the most important thing and that is what we did today,” Molina said at the end of the session.
The national leader explained that the day began with a meeting with the coaching staff, in which the work plan was outlined. Puerto Rico will have two exhibition games prior to the start of the tournament. This Tuesday they will face the Red Sox at 6:00 pm at JetBlue Park and on Wednesday from 1:00 pm, they will face the Minnesota Twins at the Lee Health Sports Complex.
“The mentality is from tomorrow (Tuesday) to start winning. We are going to go and win. Obviously with a little care, we are not going to push the boys too much, but the mentality is there. These games are important for the pitchers to work, for the boys to take turns and, above all, to continue building that chemistry,” he stated.
The leader highlighted the integration between veterans and debutants as one of the most encouraging points of this first practice.
“Very happy with the chemistry. The veterans have clicked with the young players, and that is very important for a winning team. With the talent we have, we are in a good position,” he indicated.
He also praised the work of the coaching staff and the general manager, Carlos Beltrán. “Very happy with the staff. (Carlos) Beltrán did a tremendous job uniting these horses. Having people with so much experience, champions in their respective time, giving me advice and working with the young people, fills me with pride,” he said.
Personally, Molina highlighted the growth he has experienced since his first experience as a leader in the 2023 Classic.
“Every day you learn more. I am very happy with the opportunity that the Federation has given me and the trust they have given me. We are more mature, we have very good coaches by our side and the mentality is clear, we deserve the best in terms of winning the championship,” he concluded.
After concluding the match against Minnesota, the Puerto Rican team will travel to San Juan, home of Group A presented by Discover Puerto Rico. This Thursday there will be a practice on home soil and the official debut will be on Friday against Colombia at the Hiram Bithorn Stadium.
