Rays Well-Represented in 2026 World Baseball Classic: Eight Players Set to Suit Up on International Stage
The Tampa Bay Rays are sending a strong contingent to the 2026 World Baseball Classic, with eight players from the organization set to represent five different nations when the tournament gets underway in March. From established big leaguers to intriguing prospects, the Rays’ fingerprints will be all over the WBC.
Who’s Representing the Rays?
Let’s break it down:
- Jonathan Aranda - Mexico
- Junior Caminero - Dominican Republic
- Garrett Cleavinger - United States
- Griffin Jax - United States
- Yoendrys Gomez - Venezuela
- Edwin Uceta - Dominican Republic
- Gary Gill Hill - Great Britain (prospect)
- Owen Wild - Great Britain (prospect)
That’s a solid mix of experience and upside, with both major league contributors and rising talents getting a shot at international play.
Caminero and Aranda Headline the Group
Two names jump off the list: Junior Caminero and Jonathan Aranda, both coming off All-Star campaigns in 2025. For Caminero, this moment has been a long time coming.
He’s been vocal about his desire to wear the Dominican Republic uniform, even joking with manager Albert Pujols last spring that he’d carry the water bottles if it meant being part of the squad. Fast forward a year, and after a breakout season at the plate, he’s likely penciled in as the team’s designated hitter - a far cry from water boy duties.
Aranda, meanwhile, brings a steady bat and versatility to Team Mexico, adding depth to a roster that will be looking to make noise in pool play.
Griffin Jax Brings a Unique Story to Team USA
One of the more compelling stories among Rays players in the tournament belongs to Griffin Jax. A proud Air Force Academy graduate, Jax became the first from the academy to reach the majors - and now he’ll suit up for Team USA on one of baseball’s biggest stages. Jax called the decision to pitch for the red, white, and blue the easiest of his life, and he’ll bring a disciplined, no-nonsense approach to the bullpen.
Prospects Get Their Shot on the International Stage
The WBC isn’t just a showcase for MLB stars - it’s also a proving ground for young talent, and the Rays are sending two intriguing arms to Great Britain’s squad: Owen Wild and Gary Gill Hill. Both are still in the prospect pipeline, but they’ll get a chance to test themselves against top-tier international competition. It’s a unique opportunity for development and exposure, and it’ll be worth watching how they handle the spotlight.
Yoendrys Gomez Joins Venezuela After Offseason Acquisition
Yoendrys Gomez, recently acquired by Tampa Bay this offseason, will represent Venezuela. The right-hander adds depth to a talented Venezuelan staff and will be looking to make an impression both for his country and his new club.
First Look at the Rays in Action
Fans won’t have to wait long to see Rays players in action. The first matchup featuring Tampa Bay talent comes on Friday, March 6, when Mexico takes on Great Britain at 1:00 PM ET.
That game could feature Aranda, Wild, and Gill Hill all on the field. Later that evening, Team USA opens against Brazil, setting the stage for Jax and Cleavinger to make their tournament debuts.
WBC Format: What to Know
The tournament will feature four pools, with the top two teams from each advancing to a single-elimination quarterfinal round. From there, it’s win or go home, with semifinals and a championship game capping off the action. It’s a high-stakes format that tends to bring out the best in players - and with so much Rays representation, fans have plenty of reasons to tune in.
Mark Your Calendars: First-Round Games Featuring Rays Players
Here’s a look at the upcoming schedule for the first round, highlighting matchups involving Rays players:
March 6, 2026
- *Mexico vs.
Great Britain* - 1:00 PM ET - FS1
- *USA vs.
Brazil* - 8:00 PM ET - FOX
- *Venezuela vs.
Netherlands* - 12:00 PM ET - Tubi
- *Dominican Republic vs.
Nicaragua* - 7:00 PM ET - FS2
March 7, 2026
- *USA vs.
Great Britain* - 8:00 PM ET - FOX
- *Venezuela vs.
Israel* - 7:00 PM ET - FS2
March 8, 2026
- *Mexico vs.
Brazil* - 8:00 PM ET - FS1
- *Dominican Republic vs.
Netherlands* - 12:00 PM ET - FOX
March 9, 2026
- *USA vs.
Mexico* - 8:00 PM ET - FOX
- *Great Britain vs.
Brazil* - 1:00 PM ET - Tubi
- *Dominican Republic vs.
Israel* - 12:00 PM ET - FS1
- *Venezuela vs.
Nicaragua* - 7:00 PM ET - FS2
March 10, 2026
- USA vs. Italy - 8:00 PM ET (or 9:00 PM ET in some listings) - FS1
With players spread across five different national teams, Rays fans will have no shortage of rooting interests when the WBC kicks off. Whether it’s Caminero launching bombs for the Dominican Republic, Jax firing fastballs for Team USA, or prospects like Wild and Gill Hill getting their first taste of the international spotlight, Tampa Bay’s presence will be felt - and closely watched - throughout the tournament.