As the countdown to the 2026 World Baseball Classic begins, rosters are set and excitement is building-not just for the tournament itself, but for the storylines that come with it. And for White Sox fans, there’s no shortage of intrigue. Five current players will be suiting up for their respective countries, but one name on the list has everyone doing a double take: Alexei Ramirez is back.
Yes, that Alexei Ramirez. At 44 years old, the former White Sox shortstop is coming out of the shadows to represent Cuba in the WBC-20 years after he first played in the inaugural Classic back in 2006.
A Blast from the Past
Ramirez was a staple on the South Side from 2008 to 2015, known for his smooth glove, clutch bat, and unshakable presence in the middle infield. His rookie season was electric-he launched 21 home runs and finished second in the AL Rookie of the Year voting.
But it was his grand slam in the final game of the 2008 regular season that cemented his place in White Sox lore. That swing forced a Game 163 against the Twins, which Chicago went on to win, clinching the AL Central in dramatic fashion.
Over the years, Ramirez became a fan favorite and one of the most consistent shortstops in the league. He earned Silver Slugger honors in both 2010 and 2014 and made his lone All-Star appearance in 2014. After his run in Chicago, he had a brief stint with the Padres and Rays in 2016 before stepping away from Major League Baseball.
A Surprising Return
Since then, Ramirez has mostly stayed off the radar. He played a season in the Mexican League in 2018 and made a brief return to the Cuban National Series in 2024, but for the most part, his professional baseball career seemed to be in the rearview mirror. That’s what makes this WBC comeback so surprising-and so compelling.
It’s unclear how much playing time Ramirez will see in a Cuban lineup that includes fellow former White Sox infielder Yoán Moncada and prospect Josimar Cousin. But his presence alone brings a sense of nostalgia and pride for fans who remember his prime. Whether he’s in the starting lineup or serving as a veteran mentor, his return is one of the tournament’s most unexpected and heartwarming storylines.
White Sox Well Represented
Ramirez isn’t the only White Sox connection in this year’s Classic. The club will send five current players to the tournament, representing four different nations. Kyle Teel and Sam Antonacci will suit up for Team Italy, Curtis Mead will represent Australia, and two new additions-reliever Seranthony Dominguez and slugger Munetaka Murakami-will play for the Dominican Republic and Japan, respectively.
It’s a strong international showing for a team that’s in the midst of a youth movement. With Spring Training just days away and the WBC around the corner, fans are getting a preview of what could be a dynamic 2026 season. The blend of promising young talent and international flair is giving White Sox fans plenty to be excited about.
Looking Ahead
The World Baseball Classic always brings with it a unique energy-a mix of national pride, elite competition, and unforgettable moments. For the White Sox, it’s also a chance to celebrate the past while looking toward the future.
Watching Alexei Ramirez don the Cuban jersey one more time? That’s the kind of baseball magic we live for.
And who knows? Maybe this is just the beginning of a season full of surprises on the South Side.