By Miguel Mike Medina
Photo Credit: mlb.com
The 2026 World Baseball Classic is here. Many teams and players are looking to make an impact, whether it’s with the bat or gloves. It’s also a chance for players to get recognized and discovered by MLB teams.
We have witnessed many unforgettable moments in the tournament’s history. Here are some of the best moments in World Baseball Classic history.
Shohei Ohtani Strikes Out Mike Trout to Win the WBC Title
The Ohtani vs Trout battle had sports fans and channels talking. It was the perfect script to end the World Baseball Classic in 2023. Ohtani faced his then-teammate, Trout. Ohtani blew two 100 mph fastballs by Trout.
On 3-2, Ohtani struck out Trout with a slider to lead Team Japan to victory and secure the World Baseball Classic.
Nelson Cruz Hits a Home Run off Andrew Miller
One of the best moments of the 2017 World Baseball Classic tournament. Nelson Cruz, who is best known for his longevity, hit the biggest home run for Team Dominican Republic that year.
Miller was one of the best relievers in baseball at the time. He’s great at throwing the slider. Cruz did not get fooled. Cruz caught his slider and hit it out to left field. Cruz gave the team the lead in the eighth inning. Dominican Republic won 7-5 over Team USA.
The Dominican Republic was trailing 5-3 before the Cruz home run. It was a remarkable comeback, and the crowd went wild in Miami, Florida.
Team DR Goes Undefeated
DR went 8-0 through the WBC. After getting embarrassed by Team Netherlands in 2009 with two losses, not only did Team DR get even with the Netherlands, but they surpassed every other opponent that got in the way.
Their quest for a championship became a reality when they beat Puerto Rico 3-0 in the title game in San Francisco, California.
Robinson Canó had an outstanding tournament. He’s an exceptional two-way player. Cano earned MVP, batting .469 with a pair of home runs and six RBIs.
Dice-K’s Dominant Pitching Performance
Matsuzaka was a force during the first two years of the World Baseball Classic. What he did in 2006 and 2009 was unbelievable. He was unhittable. His performance helped lead Japan to two straight tournament championships. In 2006, Matsuzaka went 3-0 with a 3.86 ERA. The Red Sox paid attention and signed him.
In 2009, Matsuzaka earned the tournament’s MVP award with a 3-0 record and 2.45 ERA.
Japan defeated South Korea 5-3 in the championship game. With the championship win, Matsuzaka made history by becoming the first player to win a World Series and World Baseball Championship. He won the 2007 World Series with the Red Sox.
Ken Griffey’s 2006 Impact for Team USA
Griffey had an impeccable impact for Team USA in the first year of the World Baseball Classic. At this point in his career, Griffey was past his prime. Injuries overshadowed his years in a Cincinnati Reds uniform.
However, in this tournament, he looked like the Griffey from the Mariners days. On March 10, 2006, Griffey delivered seven RBIs against South Africa. Griffey only had seven or more RBIs just once in his career. In this game against South Africa, it became his second of his career.
Team USA didn’t win the tournament, but Griffey’s effort won’t be forgotten.
Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.com
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