22/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Shohei Ohtani becomes best Japanese-born MLB Home Run hitter

It was the fifth home run of 2024 and the 176th overall for the WBSC Premier12 superstar, surpassing Hideki Matsui.

22/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Shae Lillywhite: Australian women's baseball star becomes Madonna Japan myotherapist

The infielder (pictured above sliding into second at the Women's Baseball World Cup 2018) is the most capped Australian Women's Baseball National Team player.

22/04/2024 1 Minute Read

USA National Team pitcher Meggie Meidlinger on a mission to develop Women's Baseball in Uganda

Her encounter with youth baseball coach Jimmy Loban led to the foundation of Baseball at Heart, which now develops women's baseball in six communities. Three other Women's Baseball World Cup alums - Stacy Piagno, Anna Kimbrell and AJ Hamilton - were also involved.

19/04/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC reveals U-15 Baseball World Cup 2024 groups

The 'Edgar Renteria' Stadium in Barranquilla (pictured above) will host one of the groups, the Super Round and the medal games. The 'Once de Noviembre' Stadium in Cartagena de Indias will host the other group and the Placement Round.

19/04/2024 1 Minute Read

MLB, Girls Scout of USA announce partnership to encourage girls play baseball/softball

The agreement includes Play Ball Kits for New Daisy Troops and nationwide Play Ball weekend activities.

19/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Nicaragua to change format of German Pomares National Baseball Championship

The National Federation believes that the format change will raise the level of play and create more development opportunities. "The ultimate goal is to improve in WBSC competitions."

19/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Pakistan launches historic baseball development programme

Former MLB pitcher Mickey Veston led the coaching staff of a selection camp involving 150 men's and women's baseball players. The three-team Punjab Baseball Leagues will follow.

18/04/2024 2 Minute Read

USA Baseball opens new Executive Offices and Training Centre in Cary

The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on 13 April. The facility includes a 22,000-square-foot covered full-sized infield which can be converted into eight pitching/batting lanes, and 14,000 square feet of office and warehouse space, new staff offices, a classroom, along with several other facility support spaces

18/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Groups announced for Premier12 2024 presented by RAXUS

The WBSC flagship tournament is scheduled from 10 to 24 November in Mexico, Taiwan, and Japan.

18/04/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC Premier12 star Tanner Houck pitches fastest MLB game since 2010

He helped the Boston Red Sox shut out the Cleveland Guardians in 1 hour and 49 minutes. He pitched 94 pitches, of which 69 were strikes.

16/04/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC Premier12 star Jeong Choi ties KBO All-Time Home Run record

The 37-year-old SSG Landers third baseman hit his 467th home run on Tuesday, 16 April, against the Kia Tigers and tied the legendary 'Lion King' Seung-Yeop Lee.

16/04/2024 2 Minute Read

Former MLB star Dennis Cook to manage Poland

International baseball veteran and WBSC Coaching Commission member John McLaren will join his staff, which will include former Olympian Paul Bragiel.

15/04/2024 2 Minute Read

Global anti-doping community celebrates Play True Day on 19 April

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) invites the whole anti-doping community to participate in the digital campaign #OnePlayTrueTeam to raise awareness about the importance of Clean Sport.

15/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Tanzania National Baseball League to open on 4 May

The regular season will run through 28 September. The Placement Round and the Finals are scheduled in December.

15/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Baseball celebrates Jackie Robinson Day on 15 April

Players and coaches will wear the iconic 42 number on the field. The Jackie Robinson Training Complex will host the Trailblazer girls baseball series and a Play Ball special edition.

15/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Nepal to cooperate with International School Sports Federation

The agreement aims to increase baseball/softball school activity and international participation. "It opens the door to a brighter future for our athletes," commented the National Baseball Softball Association President Dipak Neupane.

12/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Mexican Baseball League opens 20-team 2024 season

The expansion teams Querétaro Conspiradores and Chihuahua Dorados bring the total to 20 participants. In the opening game, the Mexico City Diablos Rojos defeated the defending champions, Puebla Pericos. The opening weekend schedule will develop through Sunday, 14 April.

12/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Baseball and softball seasons to open in Switzerland

The Swiss Baseball Softball Federation will host the U-23 Baseball European Championship Qualifier in Zurich in August.

11/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Chinese Taipei announce WBSC Premier12 coaching staff

'Totoro' Tseng's staff will include Chih-Kang Kao, Chien-Min Wang, Chiang-Ho Chen, and Cheng-Min Peng.

10/04/2024 2 Minute Read

Countdown begins with World Baseball Softball Day one month away

Join the global baseball/softball community in marking a significant chapter on Friday 10 May, as the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) celebrates a decade of remarkable progress and achievements since Riccardo Fraccari's election as president in May 2014.

10/04/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC, BFA technical course welcomes 98 participants in China

Technical commissioners, umpires and scorers worked three days in class and two days on the field during the Chinese National Baseball Championship. Gustavo Rodriguez (pictured above), Jim Baba and Yuwei Horng were the instructors.

09/04/2024 1 Minute Read

New WBSC events bidding calendar published

Immediate tournaments available for hosting include the XXXII U-18 Baseball World Cup and the II Youth Baseball5 World Cup in 2025.

05/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Netherlands to prepare for Premier12 with Kingdom Series in Aruba

The Dutch Baseball Softball Federation and the Aruban Ministry of Sports announced that Aruba will host the second edition of the Kingdom Series from 29 October to 4 November.

05/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Former KBO utility Tae-Won Choi to manage Korea in WBSC U-23 Baseball World Cup

The 53-year-old appeared in 1,284 games from 1993 to 2003 and is currently the Kyung Hee University head coach. Gye-Won Park will manage the U-18 National Team.

04/04/2024 2 Minute Read

Guadalajara, Tepic chosen host cities for Premier12 Group A in Mexico

The Charros de Jalisco Pan American Stadium in Guadalajara, Jalisco - one of the venues of the Premier12 2019 - and the brand new Santa Teresita Stadium in Tepic, Nayarit, will host the 15 games of Group A, from 10 to 14 November.

04/04/2024 2 Minute Read

WBSC Executive Board meeting: New pitch limits amongst rule changes for youth WBSC Baseball World Cups; National Federation updates and WBSC anniversary preparations on 10th May

President Riccardo Fraccari expressed his condolences to people affected by Taiwan's earthquake. The Board approved a new approach to the pitch-limit rule in U-12, U-15 and U-18 Baseball World Cups. While the merger of the Cuba Baseball and the Cuba Softball Federations into one national governing body – the Cuba Baseball Softball Federation - was one of three NF updates approved.

03/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Puerto Rico and Canada complete women's baseball friendly series

The Puerto Rican National Team faced the Canada Baseball Academy. The adult teams split a four-game series. Puerto Rico swept the U-19 six-game series.

02/04/2024 2 Minute Read

MLB Opening Day Rosters include 264 players born outside the US

The 264 players represent 19 countries or territories. The Dominican Republic tops the list with 108 players. WBSC alums include Tokyo 2020 gold medallists Yoshinobu Yamamoto (LA Dodgers), Kodai Senga (New York Mets), Seiya Suzuki (Chicago Cubs) and Masataka Yoshida (Boston Red Sox, pictured above)

02/04/2024 1 Minute Read

Houston Astros Ronel Blanco throws first 2024 MLB no hitter

The 30-year-old Dominican right-hander used 105 pitches, 73 for strikes. It was just his eighth MLB start. "It's been a very long road travelled for me," he said after the game.

30/03/2024 2 Minute Read

CPBL opens 2024 season in Taipei Dome

The 2024 CPBL season will mark a record-setting season for Taiwan baseball as the league expands to six teams and hosts games in the Taipei Dome for the first time. A total attendance of 28,618 at the opening game also set a CPBL all-time single-game record.

29/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Olympic gold medallist, WBSC Premier12 winner Min-ho Kang breaks KBO games played record

The 38-year-old catcher appeared in his 2,238th game on Thursday, 28 March. "Not once have I played with this record in my mind," he said before taking the field.

29/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Will Jen Pawol become the first MLB female umpire?

After umpiring at the Triple-A level in 2023, the 47-year-old former softball catcher called a Houston Astros-Washington Nationals of the Cactus League and is on the call-up list for 2024.

28/03/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC Yearbook 2023: "A memorable journey" of wonderful achievement - President Fraccari

The digital publication encompassing an "impressive" year for the World Baseball Softball Confederation is available to download on the WBSC website.

28/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Hao-Ju Tseng named Chinese Taipei manager for WBSC Premier12 2024

Former CPBL Rakuten Monkeys manager Hao-Ju “Totoro” Tseng will lead Chinese Taipei in November's third edition of the WBSC flagship tournament. He will soon visit all CPBL clubs and announce his coaching staff.

28/03/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC Academy: New scoring features online

The Tablet Course educates on using the BallClubz app. The online Workshops include lessons on scoring. A dedicated section offers documents needed to score games.

27/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Sena Catterall, Alizée Gélinas and Raine Padgham to represent Canada in Australian Women's Baseball Showcase

Catterall (pictured), Gélinas and Padgham were key members of the Canadian National Team at the IX WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Group A in 2023. The Australian Women's Baseball Showcase is scheduled from 9 to 12 May in Lismore, New South Wales.

26/03/2024 2 Minute Read

NPB: Defending champs Hanshin Tigers the team to beat in 2024 season

The Tigers added former major leaguer Javy Guerra to their Japan Series-winning pitching staff. Former superstar catcher Shinnosuke Abe will manage their Central League rivals, Yomiuri Giants. Despite losing ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto to MLB's LA Dodgers, the Orix Buffaloes look like the Pacific League favourites thanks to young stars Hiroya Miyagi and Shunpeita Yamashita (pictured above during the Global Baseball Games series).

25/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Puerto Rico to host Canada for women's baseball friendlies

The two National Teams and U-19 National selections will face each other in Carolina from 25-30 March. Canada will host the IX WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Finals in July/August.

25/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Third Australian Women's Baseball Showcase confirmed for May; Beacom signs for US college baseball

From 9 to 12 May, the Albert Park Baseball Complex in Lismore, New South Wales (200km south of Brisbane), will host the event's third edition, which involves emerging Australian talent and international players from Canada, Japan and the United States. Meanwhile, the star of the 2022 edition, Genevieve Beacom has committed to East Central Community College in Kansas, USA.

22/03/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC U-15 Baseball World Cup 2024 Americas Qualifier: Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Nicaragua, Venezuela claim tickets

Puerto Rico defeated the Dominican Republic in the final of the WBSC Americas Qualifer. Mexico beat Nicaragua in the third-place game. Venezuela overcame Brazil in the fifth-place game. Meanwhile, Colombia earned a wild card as the U-15 Baseball World Cup host country.

22/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Anti-doping Monthly Webinar: Whereabouts – All Your Questions Answered

The partnership with the International Testing Agency offers WBSC members unique opportunities. The new webinar is scheduled for 25 March. The baseball/softball specific webinar will happen on 28 May. Education remains a paramount part of the WBSC anti-doping campaign.

21/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Colombia to host WBSC U-15 Baseball World Cup 2024 from 16 to 25 August

Barranquilla will be the main venue with the finals scheduled at the Edgar Renteria Stadium.

21/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Dodgers and Padres split opener in Seoul, MLB season in full swing starting 28 March

Los Angeles won the first game, 5-2, and San Diego came back winning a 33-hit slugfest, 15-11, to tie the series. All 30 teams will take the field in a week. Baseball World Cup winner Xander Bogaerts has now recorded hits in five different countries during MLB regular season.

21/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Korea hosts Women's Baseball Festival

A national selection from Korea competed against teams from Japan, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Eight local teams were also involved.

21/03/2024 1 Minute Read

South Africa qualify for WBSC U-15 Baseball World Cup

South Africa is the sixth qualified National Team. The Americas Qualifier (16-21 March) and a Wild Card will complete the set of participants.

19/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Assaf Lowengart: First Israel-born baseball player to sign professional contract

The 26-year-old, who represented his country in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the 2023 World Baseball Classic, signed for the New York Boulders of the independent Frontier League.

18/03/2024 2 Minute Read

KBO to open 2024 season on 23 March

The season will open with a one-week advance to not interfere with the WBSC Premier12. KBO will use an automated ball-strike system and test a pitch clock. WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup stars Taek-Yeon Kim and Junseo Hwang made their National Team debut against MLB's LA Dodgers.

18/03/2024 2 Minute Read

A new era of Israel Baseball

Nate Fish will be the first CEO of the organization, which aims to expand the Israeli Baseball programme's offerings and fundraising in the United States. The list of directors includes various Tokyo 2020 Olympians.

15/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Groups announced for V U-23 Baseball World Cup

The tournament, which will be held from 6 to 15 September 2024 in Shaoxing, China, is the first Baseball World Cup hosted in mainland China.

15/03/2024 2 Minute Read

San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers in Seoul for MLB season opener

The two games scheduled on 20 and 21 March will be preceded by exhibitions against the Korean National Team and two KBO teams. Seoul anticipates watching Ohtani and the many international stars.

15/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Five U-15 Baseball World Cup spots up for the grabs in WBSC Americas Qualifier

Mexico, Dominican Republic, Panama, Brazil, Argentina and Bahamas will play in Group A. Venezuela, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Nicaragua, Peru and Team WBSC will compete in Group B.

14/03/2024 1 Minute Read

USA Women's National Team manager Veronica Alvarez becomes MLB Girls Baseball Ambassador

"A big factor in my life is finding 'your why'," said Alvarez. "I’ve always said my why is to grow the game for girls and women."

14/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Record baseball participation numbers in the United States

The number of people participating in baseball in USA in 2023 was close to 16.7 million. Combined with softball, it touches 25.3 million. Baseball and softball combined saw a larger percentage increase in participation (+7.6%) over basketball (5.6%) and football (3.6%).

13/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Bryan Madsen to manage USA U-12 Baseball National Team

Madsen was the third-base coach at the U-12 Baseball World Cup 2023. "I am deeply honoured and humbled. As a former United States Marine, the opportunity to represent our country means the world to myself and my family," Madsen commented. USA Baseball also announced that José Vázquez would manage the Collegiate National Team.

13/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Burkina Faso stages Baseball, Softball and Baseball5 seminar in Ouagadougou

According to the National Federation President Ibrahima Siboré, the massive education activity will improve the level of competition in Burkina Faso.

12/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Lima to host 2027 Pan American Games, second time in eight years

During the Pan Am Games Lima 2019, Men's Baseball, Women's Softball and Men´s Softball were all featured as medal disciplines.

12/03/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC scoring system course held in Türkiye

Scoring Commission member Stephanie Winkler held a clinic from 5 to 10 March in Antalya.

12/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Two-time Olympic umpire Luis Alberto Ramirez inducted to Mexican Baseball Hall of Fame

He officiated at the Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 Games and the 2009 World Baseball Classic. The other inductees are Cecilio Ruiz, Juan Manuel Palafox, Miguel Flores and Ramón Orantes (Mexican players); Yovani Gallardo (Mexican MLB players), and Ricardo Sandate (veterans)

08/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Marco Mazzieri talks Global Baseball Games: "These players made me proud"

"We came together, and the guys gave all they had. We faced impressive pitching and defence from another planet," Mazzieri said.

08/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Women's Sport - Playing a major part in the WBSC 2024 season

Celebrating International Women's Day, here's a close up look at two major tournaments on the WBSC events calendar in 2024 - the Finals of the XVII Women's Softball World Cup and the IX Women's Baseball World Cup. The mixed-gender Baseball5 World Cup will also take place in Hong Kong, China.

07/03/2024 3 Minute Read

Global Baseball Games: Japan win Game Two behind perfect pitching

Six pitchers didn't allow a runner and combined for 15 strikeouts. Delano Selassa thought he had got to Chiciro Sumida in the seventh, but centre fielder Misho Nishikawa stopped his hard-hit liner with a diving catch.

07/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Team Europe's Bocchi and Mineo welcomed to Japan with flowers

The right-handed pitcher and the catcher play for Parma in the Italian Serie A. The Kanagawa Governor is working on an agreement with the Italian city and thought that the link with baseball needed a celebration.

07/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Global Baseball Games: Markus Solbach and Yumeto Kanemaru to start Game 2

Playball is at 19:00 on Thursday at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka, Japan. Solbach is a former minor leaguer who appeared at the Triple-A level, and Kanemaru is a 20-year-old top collegiate prospect.

06/03/2024 3 Minute Read

Japan shut out Europe to open Global Baseball Games

The world No. 1 pitching staff limited Europe to six hits. The top of the batting order got seven of 11 Japanese hits. Game two is scheduled for Thursday, 7 March, at 19:00 local time.

06/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Veronica Alvarez returns as USA Baseball Women's National Team manager for 2024 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Finals

Alvarez and her staff will guide USA at the WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup Finals from July 28-August 3 in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

05/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Tom de Blok and Kaima Taira to start Global Baseball Games opener

Taira is a 24-year-old NPB All-Star and a Tokyo 2020 gold medallist. De Blok is a Dutch Hoofdklasse star with massive experience at the international level.

05/03/2024 1 Minute Read

David Eckstein, Brad Penny and Steve Stone join USA U-18 Baseball National Team staff

They will serve under manager Rick Eckstein in the 2024 season. Penny and David Eckstein are both World Series winners. Stone had a 24-year career as a high school manager.

04/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Sold out Taipei Dome welcomes professional baseball

The game between NPB's Yomiuri Giants and CPBL's CTBC Brothers attracted the largest attendance in Taiwan's baseball history. The Giants defeated the Brothers in the first game but tied with Rakuten Monkeys the next day.

04/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Global Baseball Games: Team Europe come from behind to tie exhibition game against Hayate 223

Marek Chlup hit a three-run homer. Alberto Mineo (two doubles) and Noah Williamson (double) provided power from the bench. After trailing 4-0, Europe scored in the final two innings to finish 4-4. "We had a good outing," commented manager Marco Mazzieri. "The staff has now a clearer picture."

03/03/2024 1 Minute Read

Team Europe to warm up for Global Baseball Games against minor league team Hayate 223

The 28-player squad worked under manager Marco Mazzieri and his staff. They will face the minor league Hayate 223 on Monday.

03/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Meet Osaka, the host city of the Global Baseball Games

Osaka has 2.7 million inhabitants and is located in the Kansai region of Honshu island. The two games will be played at the Kyocera Dome, a 36,000-seat covered stadium in the Nishi-ku ward,

02/03/2024 2 Minute Read

Global Baseball Games: Noah Williamson replaces Rhiner Cruz on Team Europe roster

Manager Marco Mazzieri decided to go with 13 pitchers and added a right-handed bat. Williamson, who will play in the Japanese Kansai League in 2024, commented: "Being the first Swiss player to represent Team Europe is an indescribable feeling."

01/03/2024 1 Minute Read

GameTime to stream Global Baseball Games series globally

The WBSC OTT Platform will cover the event outside Japan and the two European countries, which have local broadcast rights - Czechia and Russia.

29/02/2024 4 Minute Read

German pitcher Sven Schueller ahead of Global Baseball Games: "European kids, chase your dream"

The right-hander has been committed to baseball since he entered the Regensburg Academy as a 15-year-old. He spoke of his experience in professional baseball and the situation in Germany and Europe. "Japanese players always find a way to put the bat on the ball. It will be tough."

29/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Shaukat Javed re-elected as President of Pakistan Baseball Federation

Along with President Javed, Syed Fakhar Ali Shah was elected as Secretary General.

27/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Olympic bronze medallist Rick Eckstein to manage USA U-18 Baseball National Team

He took over from Michael Cuddyer, who finished fourth at the XXXI WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup. He was on the coaching staff of the 2007 Baseball World Cup winner and the 2008 Beijing Olympics bronze medal winning team.

26/02/2024 2 Minute Read

Venezuelan League winner Tiago Da Silva ready for Global Baseball Games

The right-hander was part of La Guaira bullpen in the 2023-24 season. He grew up in Brazil and completed his development in Italy, where he became a citizen, helping the National Team win two European Championships and make the top eight at the 2013 World Baseball Classic.

26/02/2024 1 Minute Read

International baseball mourns sudden passing of Czech National Team coach David Winkler

He died suddenly a few weeks before his 44th birthday. The Czech Baseball Association posted on social media, adding: "He helped various generations of players develop and contributed to the game's growth in Czechia."

23/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Joong-il Ryu to manage Korea at WBSC Premier12

Ryu, who won four Korean Series with the Samsung Lions, led Korea to an Asian Games gold medal in 2023.

23/02/2024 1 Minute Read

MLB great Albert Pujols to manage Escogido Leones in Dominican Pro Winter League

The former baseball superstar retired after the 2022 season, after a legendary career highlighted by 3,384 hits, including 703 home runs. This will be his first managerial experience.

23/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Hirokazu Ibata on Global Baseball Games: "Europe is talented"

The WBSC had a chance to talk to the Samurai Japan manager in Tokyo. "I approached players who I want or expect to be at the Premier12."

23/02/2024 2 Minute Read

Baseball World Cup winner Sharlon Schoop shares fond international career memories ahead of Global Baseball Games

The Dutch veteran started the 2011 Baseball World Cup final against Cuba at second base, with his younger brother Jonathan, a future MLB All-Star, at third. "International baseball is different. You play with guys you grew up with. It is still baseball, but the chemistry is different. You play with your heart."

23/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Koshien winner Masayoshi Ogara to manage Japanese U-18 National Team

It will be Ogura's second stint as Japan's U-18 National Team manager after the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup 2012. "The responsibility humbles me. Watching Japan win under Shiro Mabuchi last year made me emotional."

22/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Olympic gold medallist, MLB All-Star Hyun-jin Ryu returns to Korea

The left-hander signed an eight-year contract with the Hanwha Eagles, the club he played for from 2006 to 2012, worth US$12.8 million.

19/02/2024 3 Minute Read

Czech star Martin Cervenka on the Global Baseball Games series: "You are going to see good baseball and competitive games in Osaka"

"I took a look at Japan's roster, and they look like an outstanding team. At the same time, we are an experienced side." After a 10-year career in the United States, the catcher still enjoys playing the game.

19/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Swiss Baseball Softball Federation General Assembly welcomes four new members

President Dagmar Voith Leeman described the 2023 season as successful and highlighted the historic participation in the Baseball European Championship.

19/02/2024 2 Minute Read

Francisco Cervelli to replace Steve Janssen on Team Europe's Global Baseball Games coaching staff

The former Major Leaguer will serve as special assistant to catching, with Luis Camargo taking over as third base coach. "It's amazing. When Marco Mazzieri asked me, I didn't hesitate," commented Cervelli.

16/02/2024 2 Minute Read

Former Major Leaguer Alex Liddi talks Global Baseball Games: "Making Team Europe means a lot to me"

The veteran slugger became the first player born and developed in Italy to play at the MLB level when he debuted for the Seattle Mariners in September 2011. "Making the team means a lot to me. I can't wait to play."

16/02/2024 1 Minute Read

85th Puerto Rican Superior Double-A Baseball League to open on 18 February

The defending champions, Arenosos. will host in Camuy the Atillo Tigres. The rest of the 45 participants will take the field on 23 February. The National Federation announced various innovative changes in a press conference.

15/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Schedule announced for Women's Baseball World Cup Finals; USA v Venezuela opening game

The WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Finals in Thunder Bay, Canada will open on Sunday, 28 July with USA playing Venezuela at 10 am. Defending champions Japan take on Chinese Taipei at 2 pm before the Opening Ceremony takes place at 6 pm and Canada play Mexico in the last game of the day, starting at 7.30 pm. All times are local.

15/02/2024 2 Minute Read

Sidney De Jong: "Europe will play Global Baseball Games to win"

The former superstar catcher participated in the Global Baseball Games 2015. "I am positive there will be good chemistry in the staff. We will be able to optimize the preparation for the games."

14/02/2024 2 Minute Read

Japan and Europe managers Ibata and Mazzieri discuss rosters ahead of Global Baseball Games

"I think we selected a good balance of players with national team experience and young players who were selected for the first time," said Hirokazu Ibata. "We are happy with what we have. We are also sorry because we had to make tough choices and leave some excellent players behind," commented Marco Mazzieri.

14/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Six Tokyo 2020 gold medallists are core of Samurai Japan Global Baseball Games roster

Pitchers Morishita, Kuribayashi and Taira; infielders Genda and Murakami (pictured above); and outfielder Kondoh competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

14/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Former Major Leaguers Cruz, Liddi and Beltre highlight Team Europe roster for Global Baseball Games

Right-hander Rhiner Cruz pitched in 74 games, slugging infielder Alex Liddi (pictured above) appeared in 61 and outfielder Engel Beltre played 22. The reigning European champions, Spain, contribute eight players, the Netherlands have seven, Italy six, Czechia four and Germany three.

14/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Jenny Canvar becomes first woman to serve as MLB primary play-by-play broadcaster

The 41-year-old reporter will partner with former MLB pitcher Dallas Braden for the Oakland A's games. Cavnar, who grew up as a baseball coach's daughter, said in a news release: "It is a dream come true."

12/02/2024 3 Minute Read

Global Baseball Games: Aritz Garcia, the youngest coach on Team Europe's staff

Born in 1989 in Pamplona, Spain, he attended the MLB European Academy, played in the United States and Japan and has been on the Spanish National Team staff since 2021. He will serve as the bullpen coach. "I'm available to do everything that needs to be done."

12/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Cuba, New South Wales Baseball League sign Memorandum of Understanding

Cuban Ambassador Tanieris Diéguez La O and the league's CEO Mark Marino committed to a collaboration process intended to achieve sports exchanges in Baseball and Baseball5.

09/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Former U-18 Pan American Champion Bobby Witt Jr signs 11-year extension with Kansas City Royals

The deal sets a record in the franchise's history. Witt, the son of former MLB pitcher Bobby Senior, represented the US at the World Baseball Classic 2023.

08/02/2024 3 Minute Read

Global Baseball Games: Three-time Olympian Evert Jan ‘t Hoen will serve as infield coach on Team Europe's staff

The Dutch National Team manager has experience in international baseball at the highest levels as a player. "It's an honour to be part of Team Europe."

07/02/2024 2 Minute Read

Premier12: MLB All-Star Adam Frazier recalls the "incredible experience" of Shohei Ohtani in 2015

After signing a one-year contract with the Kansas City Royals, the second baseman answered questions by John Morosi about his 2015 Premier12 experience and crossing paths with a young Shohei Ohtani.

07/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Cincinnati Reds sign WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup alum Ichiro Cano

The 19-year-old was Mexico's starting third baseman at the XXX and XXXI U-18 Baseball World Cups.

06/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Yabucoa win U-18 Double-A Baseball League in Puerto Rico

In the final, the Yabucoa Azucareros swept the defending champions Guaynabo Mets. The 85th Double-A League will open on 18 February after the Champions Cup.

06/02/2024 2 Minute Read

Luis Camargo representing Austria, Italy and Brazil at Global Baseball Games

With one month to go until the Global Baseball Games between Japan and Team Europe, we meet Luis Camargo. The Brazilian-born has Italian heritage and is a dual citizen. He represented both countries internationally as a left-handed hitting catcher. He manages the Austrian Champions Diving Ducks and will serve on Team Europe's coaching staff.

05/02/2024 3 Minute Read

Global Baseball Games: Pavel Chadim becomes first Czech coach on Team Europe's staff

The former ExtraLiga star outfielder became the first manager to lead Czechia to the World Baseball Classic. He will serve as manager Mazzieri's first base coach. "World Baseball needs European Baseball to be strong."

05/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Arecibo Lobas win Puerto Rican Women's Baseball League undefeated

Arecibo swept Vega Alta Maceteras in the best-of-five final series, completing an 18-win run over the 2023-24 season. It's their 12th league title, the third in a row.

05/02/2024 1 Minute Read

Adelaide Giants repeat as Australian Baseball League Champions

The Giants beat the Perth Heat in the best-of-three final series after losing an epic 13-inning opener. National Team veteran Todd Van Steensel earned MVP honours.

02/02/2024 1 Minute Read

International Baseball legend Osvaldo Gil inducted to Puerto Rico Double-A League Hall of Fame

The former National Olympic Committee President and International Baseball Federation Technical Commission chair leads a list of 15 inductees. The Juan Cheo Lopez Stadium in Camuy (pictured above) will host the pre-season classic Champions Cup and the Double-A Opening Day.

02/02/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC course licenses seven Level 3 baseball coaches in Türkiye

WBSC envoy instructor Mauro Mazzotti held the clinic in Antalya.

31/01/2024 2 Minute Read

Global Baseball Games: Meet Team Europe third-base coach Steve Janssen

The Belgian coach managed Team Europe in 2015 and will serve as Marco Mazzieri's third-base coach in the second edition. "Marco and I have talked about doing something together for a long time."

31/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Life of Olympian/baseballer Jim Thorpe honoured in Oklahoma

The first Native American to win an Olympic medal, he was stripped of his pentathlon and decathlon golds because he had played professional baseball. His case was finally cleared in 2022.

30/01/2024 3 Minute Read

2023 - A Year of Firsts

The Baseball Champions League was one of a number of milestones for the WBSC in 2023, on and off the field.

29/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Chiriqui Federales repeat as Panama Pro Baseball League champions

They swept back-to-back series. MLB everyday players Christian Betancourt and Ivan Herrera starred during the finals.

29/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Licey on top of the Dominican Professional Baseball Winter League for 24th time

The Tigres needed seven games to defeat Estrellas Orientales and repeat as champions. Second baseman Gustavo Gomez earned MVP honours.

29/01/2024 1 Minute Read

La Guaira beat Lara to claim eighth Venezuela Professional Baseball League title

The Tiburones won the best-of-seven final series 4-1. It's their eighth pennant, the first in 38 years. Ricardo Pinto earned wins in Games One and Five and was named the series MVP.

29/01/2024 2 Minute Read

Austrian Baseball Softball Federation celebrates 40 year anniversary

National Federation President Rainer Husty remembered the early days: "We started without equipment, playing in parks. We can be proud of what we built."

26/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Puerto Rico Baseball: U-18 Double-A League final to open on 28 January

The best-of-five series will be a 2022-23 final rematch between Guaynabo Mets and Jabucoa Azucareros. The 2024 Copa de Campeones will serve as a pre-season warm-up to the Double-A league, which is set to open on 18 February in Camuy.

26/01/2024 2 Minute Read

Global Baseball Games: 2015 ace Alessandro Maestri set to help Team Europe take on Samurai Japan as pitching coach

The 39-year-old was the first Italian player to compete at the NPB level. He will coach Team Europe's pitching staff for the event's second edition. "In 2015, we went beyond expectations. We came together as a team and showed a lot of pride. Hopefully, we can repeat ourselves."

25/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Hermosillo Naranjeros sweep final, claim 17th Mexican Pacific League title

Their last win dates back to 2014. Outfielder Aaron Altherr earned MVP honours. Left-handed reliever Luis Marquez contributed with key saves in Game Two and Three.

25/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Hall of Fame Class of 2024 made of international baseball stars

Jim Leyland managed the United States to the 2017 World Baseball Classic, Adrian Beltre made the inaugural World Baseball Classic All-World Team, Joe Mauer is a five-time USA Baseball alum, and Todd Helton played for the US Collegiate team.

24/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Matanzas win II Cuban Baseball Elite League

The Cocodrilos defeated Artemisa, 4-2, in the best-of-seven final series. Matanzas captain Eduardo Blanco earned MVP honours. The All-Star Series is scheduled from 28 January to 2 February.

23/01/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari: "We look ahead to an exciting year" in 2024

The third edition of the WBSC Premier12 highlights an impressive 2024 international baseball/softball events calendar. "It will be a great finale to a very busy year of events," says Fraccari in a video message to the baseball/softball family.

23/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Arecibo to defend title against Vega Alta in Puerto Rico Double-A Women's Baseball League final

Defending champions, Lobas, enter the series with a clean 15-0 record. Maceteras will play for the pennant for the first time.

22/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Caguas Criollos win Puerto Rico Roberto Clemente pro league for 21st time

The Criollos celebrated the pennant on home soil in Caguas, defeating Carolinas Gigantes 4-1 in the eighth game of the best-of-nine series.

22/01/2024 1 Minute Read

International baseball veteran Ariel Sanchez celebrates 2,000 hits in Cuba

The 39-year-old outfielder competes for Matanzas in the second Cuban Elite League final series. He is the son and nephew of former stars. His uncles Wilfredo and Fernando surpassed the 2,000-hit mark.

19/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Rivas Gigantes win XIX Nicaragua Professional Baseball National League

Gigantes defeated Tren del Norte in six games, earning their fourth league title. Manager German Mesa tied at three Noel Areas and Sandor Guido for the most wins in the league's history. Dominican slugger Francisco Peguero earned MVP honours.

18/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Education remains paramount in WBSC anti-doping campaign

The WBSC 2021-2014 plan includes monthly webinars in collaboration with the ITA. Registration is open for the first webinar, scheduled for 30 January. The latest list of prohibited substances is available on the WBSC website.

17/01/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC Members Handbook: A tool to further boost Member Federations' development

In line with the WBSC Strategic Plan 2022-2028, the WBSC Members Handbook provides guidelines and resources to the members to improve their governance and boost sustainable growth.

17/01/2024 1 Minute Read

MLB International Signing period opens, Brazilian Vinicius Dos Santos goes to San Francisco Giants

The majority of the new signings come from the Dominican Republic, Venezuela and other baseball countries in the Caribbean or Central America. The Bahamas and Haiti represent the new frontier in the area. MLB clubs also scouted Africa, Europe and Oceania.

17/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Dutch Baseball National Team players to hold clinics for youth teams

"The goal of these clinics is to strengthen the relation between club activity and the top level," said the Dutch Baseball Softball Federation.

16/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Francisco Rodriguez to manage Venezuela U-15 Baseball National Team

In February, the legendary K-Rod (pictured above at the World Baseball Classic 2009-MLB/Getty Images) will lead his country at the WBSC Americas U-15 Baseball World Cup Qualifier.

16/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Barranquilla Caimanes win Colombian Professional Baseball League

It's the 13th league title for the Caimanes. Manager José Mosquera helped Colombia to bronze in the 2021 WBSC U-23 Baseball World Cup. Brazilian hurler Daniel Missaki earned MVP honours.

15/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Samurai Japan manager Hirokazu Ibata ready for Global Baseball Games

The 48-year-old formed NPB star will manage Samurai Japan through the WBSC Premier12 2024. During the season, he will also serve as U-15 National Team head coach.

15/01/2024 2 Minute Read

Olympian Chien-Ming Wang; Former WBSC Vice President Tom Peng elected to the Taiwan Baseball Hall of Fame

A former Major League Baseball player with the New York Yankees, Washington Nationals, Toronto Blue Jays and Kansas City Royals, Chien-Ming Wang was elected, along with four other Taiwan baseball legends, to the Class of 2023, which includes former WBSC Vice President and BFA President Tom Peng.

12/01/2024 1 Minute Read

MLB 2024 season goes international

Dodgers-Padres will open the 2024 regular season in Seoul, Korea, on 20 March. Astros and Rockies will play in Mexico City on 28 and 28 April and London will welcome Mets and Phillies on 8 and 9 June.

12/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Rafael Sánchez Melo elected Players Representative on Puerto Rican Baseball Federation Board

The Double-A League veteran slugger was unanimously elected during a meeting chaired by stellar pitcher Jean Félix Ortega. A Women's League representative will follow.

11/01/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC Premier12 winner Shota Imanaga to play for MLB's Chicago Cubs

The club announced a four-year deal with the Japanese 30-year-old left-hander who started the 2023 World Baseball Classic final against the United States,

11/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Japan v Team Europe: Tickets on sale from 27 January for Global Baseball Games series

World No. 1 Japan will face Team Europe at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka on 6 and 7 March. From 20 to 23 January fans will be able to register for a pre-request lottery.

10/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Yomiuri Giants women's team visits Nicaragua

As part of the club's 90th anniversary project, the Yomiuri Giants held a clinic for elementary school students and played a friendly match with the Nicaraguan National Team.

10/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Swiss prospect Livio Bundi loves to play baseball year round

After playing for Ventura College in the United States, the pitcher and infielder represented his country at the European Championship 2023. He now plays in the Australian Victoria Summer League and will return to Europe to compete in the 2024 German Bundesliga.

10/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Rachel Balkovec becomes Miami Marlins Director of Player Development

Two years ago, the 36-year-old was named by the New York Yankees as the first woman to manage in the minor leagues.

09/01/2024 1 Minute Read

WBSC Premier12: Puerto Rico names Edwin Rodriguez General Manager

The baseball agent, pictured on the right, has been involved in Puerto Rico's players' development since 2006. Federation President José Quiles (middle): "He has contacts, experience and knowledge to serve in the position".

09/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Italian prospect Lorenzo Morresi commits to University of Texas San Antonio

Born in 2001, Morresi represented Italy at the U-23 European Championship. He starred in 46 New Mexico Junior College games before competing in the Italian Baseball League for his hometown, Macerata, in 2023.

08/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Vega Alta win Puerto Rican U-15 Baseball League

Maceteros also won the U-12 title. The National Federation announced that 30 teams participated in the two youth leagues.

08/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Olympian Woo-Suk Go signs for MLB's San Diego Padres

The 25-year-old right-hander helped Korea to a second-place finish in the 2019 WBSC Premier12 and a XIX Asian Games title.

08/01/2024 1 Minute Read

Canadian Baseball Insider Shi Davidi earns Bob Elliott Media Recognition Award

The award is named after Bob Elliott, a recipient of the Career Excellence Award, the highest recognition given by the Baseball Writers' Association of America (BBWAA), presented annually by the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

31/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Top-10 WBSC Baseball World Cup Plays of the Year: No. 1 Samaria Benitez (Mexico)

The best Baseball World Cup Play of 2023 belongs to Samaria Benitez, the shortstop of the Mexican Women's National Baseball Team that participated in the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Group A in Thunder Bay, Canada.

31/12/2023 8 Minute Read

2023 in Review - Top Stories of the Year

The top stories in 2023, a year in which baseball and softball made its return in the Olympic sports programme of LA28, the launch of the two-stage format for the Baseball and Softball World Cups as well as four new tournaments – U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup, U-15 Women’s Softball World Cup, Youth Baseball5 World Cup and the Baseball Champions League - plus exciting developments in eSport.

31/12/2023 1 Minute Read

WBSC/KONAMI Men's Baseball World Ranking: A 2023 to remember for Mexico

World No. 1 Japan earned the most points in 2023 but Mexico climbed three positions to become the most improved programme among the top 10. Costa Rica, up 22 places, is the most improved programme overall. The top 12 programmes qualified for the III WBSC Premier12.

31/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Japan and Chinese Taipei show consistency at top of WBSC/KONAMI Women's Baseball World Ranking

The two Asian power houses maintained No. 1 and No. 2 spots over the last two-year period.

30/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Top-10 WBSC Baseball World Cup Plays of the Year: No. 2 Choongheon Lee (Korea)

At No. 2, Korean centre fielder Choongheon Lee made the best play of the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup in Taiwan.

30/12/2023 4 Minute Read

2023 Year in Focus

The confirmation by the IOC Session of baseball/softball on the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics programme was one of many "giant strides" made by the WBSC in 2023. The WBSC launched new tournaments, partnered with Konami for the WBSC eBASEBALL™: POWER PROS and made significant statute changes whilst announcing 10 May as WBSC Day.

29/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Top-10 WBSC Baseball World Cup Plays of the Year: No. 3 Jack Bushell (Australia)

Australia's starting pitcher Jack Bushell made a spectacular play against Spain at the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup.

28/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Top-10 WBSC Baseball World Cup Plays of the Year: No. 4 Jamie Beerman (Netherlands)

The Netherlands' first baseman Jamie Beerman earned the No. 4 play of the year with a superb diving catch against Chinese Taipei at the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup.

28/12/2023 4 Minute Read

2023 Year in Review - Development: Baseball/Softball continues to develop in many ways and many places

The WBSC funds development through the Continental Associations and various partnerships. New Baseball and Softball venues opened from Africa to the Middle East to Asia while Iran (featured photo) staged its first U-13 Baseball Championship.

27/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Olympic gold medallist Yoshinobu Yamamoto joins Ohtani at LA Dodgers

Japanese baseball star Yamamoto signed a 12-year contract worth US$325 million, the largest ever by a pitcher in MLB history. Another Samurai Japan legend Shohei Ohtani joined the Los Angeles Dodgers earlier this month for $700 million.

27/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Top-10 WBSC Baseball World Cup Plays of the Year: No. 5 Tyler Early (USA)

In fifth position is a sensational diving catch by USA's right fielder Tyler Early to finish their game against Korea in the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup.

26/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Top-10 WBSC Baseball World Cup Plays of the Year: No. 6 Dayanni Velasquez (Cuba)

The No. 6 belongs to Cuban shortstop Dayanni Velasquez, who made a spectacular play against Chinese Taipei at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Group B in Miyoshi City, Japan.

25/12/2023 2 Minute Read

First On-Site Safeguarding Workshop a success

The WBSC Integrity Unit held the first-ever on-site safeguarding workshop during the XXXI WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup this past summer and received overwhelming positive feedback. The WBSC Integrity Unit has been promoting #SafeCall safeguarding campaign since 2021.

24/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Top-10 WBSC Baseball World Cup Plays of the Year: No. 7 Esmeiquel Arrieche (Venezuela)

At No. 7, Esmeiquel Arrieche, Venezuelan third baseman, delivers an electric diving catch at the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup.

23/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Top-10 WBSC Baseball World Cup Plays of the Year: No. 8 Jan Reyes (Puerto Rico)

The No. 8 in the countdown is a magic play from Puerto Rico's left-handed pitcher Jan Reyes, at the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup.

22/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Top-10 WBSC Baseball World Cup Plays of the Year: No. 9 Manny Marin (USA)

USA's shortstop Manuelle Marin backhands a ball in the hole at shortstop for an out at first base at the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup. This is our No. 9 baseball play of the year.

21/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Top-10 WBSC Baseball World Cup Plays of the Year: No. 10 Miquel Willem (Netherlands)

The Netherlands U-18 National Baseball Team centre fielder Miquel Willem opens the list of baseball top plays with a superb diving catch in the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup in Taiwan.

20/12/2023 1 Minute Read

WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup alum Jayden Kim signs for Pittsburgh Pirates

Born in 2006, Kim was Australia's starting shortstop at the XXX and XXXI U-18 Baseball World Cups.

20/12/2023 2 Minute Read

Premier12 2024 presented by RAXUS: World's Top 12 nations qualified for WBSC's flagship baseball tournament

The top 12 teams in the WBSC/Konami Men's Baseball World Rankings at the end of 2023 qualify for the Premier12 2024, the most important event on the international baseball calendar next year.

19/12/2023 2 Minute Read

WBSC Congress approves Statutes Amendments to enhance global baseball/softball

The Member Federations voted in written form on 6 December. One combined Executive Board will lead the WBSC with the support of two additional permanent Commissions for Baseball and Softball.

19/12/2023 2 Minute Read

British Baseball Hall of Fame announces Class of 2023

The Historic Committee selected Charlie Muirhead, while Craig Savage was the sole inductee from the Modern Ballot. "I can't quite believe that I am to be listed in a category alongside such historical influences on the game as Sir Francis Ley and Sir John Moores."

19/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Over 5,000 children participate in MLB Cup Fall season in China

The MLB Cup included stops in 13 cities. MLB also launched the First Pitch programme in 12 cities, involving over 9,000 participants. My First Baseball Lessons enjoyed six more episodes.

18/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Japan finish 2023 on top of WBSC/KONAMI Men's Baseball World Ranking

The World Baseball Softball Confederation and Konami Digital Entertainment Inc. have expanded their global partnership to incorporate the WBSC World Rankings naming rights.

18/12/2023 3 Minute Read

2023 Year in Review: A Year of Major Milestones for International Baseball

The year began with the most successful edition of the World Baseball Classic and finished with a historic Baseball Champions League Americas, the first-ever WBSC club competition.

18/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Ohtani earns All-MLB Team honours as starting pitcher and designated hitter

The All-MLB Team features three players born outside the United States and four international baseball stars. Ohtani and fellow MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. received the Hank Aaron Award.

18/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Australian 18-year-old Drew Davies signs for Cincinnati Reds

The slugging outfielder starred for South Australia at the U-18 National Championship. He made the U-18 National Team but couldn't participate in the XXXI World Cup due to a broken finger. Scout Donald Lutz: "I really liked his swing."

18/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Koshien baseball/softball development project thrives in Tanzania

The Tigers won the inaugural National Baseball League. The National Baseball Softball Association hosted the 11th baseball and seventh softball Koshien for secondary schools. The Warriors won in baseball, while the Hondogo Ladies earned the softball title.

16/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Baseball Australia among ASC Media Awards finalists

The media team is in contention for the “Best Coverage of a Sport by an Organisation or Club” award by the Australian Sports Commission for their work covering the World Baseball Classic 2023.

15/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Beijing 2008 bronze medallist John Gall elected USA Baseball President

Gall succeeds Mike Gaski, who has served in the position since 2001. The Stanford University alum enjoyed a professional career at the MLB, KBO and LMB levels.

15/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Puerto Rican Double-A Baseball League to open on 18 February 2024

The defending champions, Arenosos de Camuy, will host the opening day. The island enjoys a year-round baseball season - Camuy will compete in the Dominico Boricua Champions Cup, Vega Alta won the U-12 championship while the Women's League is down to the semifinals stage.

14/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Samurai Japan win Grand Prix at 72nd National Sports Awards

Hideki Kuriyama, who managed Japan to the 2023 World Baseball Classic title, commented on the award: "I would like to once again express my gratitude to all the players, coaches, staff, and everyone involved."

14/12/2023 1 Minute Read

WBSC Premier12 and Tokyo 2020 star Jung-ho Lee to join MLB's San Francisco Giants

The 25-year-old star outfielder's deal is the most significant contract signed by a KBO posted player.

14/12/2023 2 Minute Read

Ohtani and LA Dodgers, a deal for the history books

The richest contract in the history of North American team sports will be, for the most part, deferred to 2034-2043. After a record-setting season, Ohtani underwent surgery and will perform only as a hitter in 2024.

12/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Venezuela win U-18 South American Baseball Championship

They defeated Brazil 2-1 in the final in Salta, Argentina.

12/12/2023 4 Minute Read

Participating in BFA Asian Championship a milestone in Palestine Baseball/Softball history

As a runner-up in the West Asia Cup 2023, Palestine were able to participate in the BFA Asian Baseball Championship for the first time. Veteran catcher Tariq Suboh, pictured, was a key part of Palestine's exploits in Taiwan.

12/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Hensley Meulens leaves Netherlands Baseball National Team

After representing the Netherlands in the Olympics as a player, the former MLB slugger led the Dutch to back-to-back World Baseball Classic semifinals in 2013 and 2017 and at the WBSC Premier12 in 2015 and 2019.

12/12/2023 2 Minute Read

WBSC Africa announces dates, venues of Baseball, Softball & Baseball5 World Cup Qualifiers

South Africa will host U-15 and U-23 Baseball World Cup and Men's Softball World Cup qualifiers. Praia, Cape Verde will be the venue for Africa's Baseball5 World Cup qualifier.

11/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Dutch Baseball Softball Federation elects new Board, Gregor Rossen as President

A senior portfolio manager, Gregor Rossen has experience as a coach and an executive in Dutch baseball.

10/12/2023 2 Minute Read

Shohei Ohtani signs with LA Dodgers, continues to make baseball history

The new deal for Shohei Ohtani, who was named the WBSC Baseball Player of the Year in 2015, is not only a record-breaking MLB deal but also exciting for a city that will have baseball and softball on the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games sports programme.

08/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Heidenheim, Regensburg and Wesseling celebrate titles in German baseball/softball

The Heidenheim Heidekoepfe won the Baseball Bundesliga. The Regensburg Legionaere won the German Baseball Cup. The Wesseling Vermins won the Women's Softball Pennant and German Cup.

07/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Swiss baseball/softball celebrates Awards Night

The Zurich Challengers won the Baseball National League A, while the Wittenbach Panthers won in Women's Softball. Baseball National Team manager Chris Byrnes was named the Coach of the Year.

06/12/2023 3 Minute Read

Pakistan baseball stands tall on the mound, looking for a bright future

Pakistan lost their debut game in the XXX BFA Asia Baseball Championship but won the hearts of the fans. As Pakistan reliever Amaan Jan Khan struck out Motoki Mukoyama of Japan to end the inning, 6,000 intense fans in Taipei Dome erupted and gave the night's loudest applause.

06/12/2023 1 Minute Read

U-12 World Cup winners are USA Baseball Team of the Year

The WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup 2023 MVP Tyler Early received the Richard W. 'Dick' Case Award together with World Baseball Classic silver medallist Trea Turner. It's the first time the organization honours two Athletes of the Year.

05/12/2023 3 Minute Read

Global Baseball Games: WBSC announces Marco Mazzieri's Team Europe coaching staff

The Global Baseball Games against Samurai Japan are scheduled for 6 and 7 March 2024, at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka.

05/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Former MLB pitcher Erick Fedde earns KBO's MVP honours

The 30-year-old right-hander received 102 out of 111 votes on the ballot. The NC Dinos made him an offer to stay. "I'm going to try to do what's best for me and my family for my baseball career," Fedde commented after receiving the award.

05/12/2023 2 Minute Read

China to host V WBSC U-23 Baseball World Cup from 6 to 15 September, 2024

The Shaoxing Baseball & Softball Sports Culture Center, the venue of baseball and softball at the 19th Asian Games, will host a WBSC baseball event in mainland China for the first time. Eight teams have qualified so far with hosts China receiving a wild card.

05/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Sint Maarten to launch High School International Baseball tournament

The 16-team tournament is scheduled from 28 June to 5 July, 2024. Registration will close on 29 February.

04/12/2023 1 Minute Read

Guam confirmed as Oceania U-15 Champions, qualify for VI WBSC U-15 Baseball World Cup

The Oceania U-15 Baseball Championship has been contested six times since 2003. Australia won the first four editions before Guam won the last two.

02/12/2023 2 Minute Read

XXX BFA Asian Championship starts Sunday, qualifies three teams for WBSC U-23 Baseball World Cup 2024

The hosts and defending champions Chinese Taipei, Japan and Korea are the favourites in the eight-team tournament opening on Sunday, 3 December at the new Taipei Dome.

02/12/2023 1 Minute Read

WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari inaugurates new Taipei Dome

World Home Run King Sadaharu Oh officiated a ceremonial first pitch. The venue will host the XXX BFA Asia Championship, a qualifying event for the WBSC U-23 Baseball World Cup 2023.

01/12/2023 1 Minute Read

The Dominican Republic to host WBSC Americas U-15 Baseball World Cup Qualifier

The 12-team tournament is scheduled for February 2024 and will qualify the top-five finishers to the World Cup.

30/11/2023 1 Minute Read

Inaugural Curaçao Professional Baseball League live on GameTime

GameTime offers viewers the chance to watch the whole tournament for US$15.99. The Day Pass cost $6.99. The Tio Daou Ball Park in Willemstad will host the event.

30/11/2023 2 Minute Read

Colombia win Pan American U-23 Baseball Championship

Colombia won a thrilling pitching duel against Nicaragua, 1-0. The two National Teams, third-place Venezuela and fourth-place Puerto Rico advanced to the WBSC U-23 Baseball World Cup 2024.

29/11/2023 1 Minute Read

Colombia, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico and Venezuela qualify for WBSC U-23 Baseball World Cup 2024

Undefeated Colombia and Nicaragua will compete for the U-23 Pan American title. Puerto Rico and Venezuela will play for bronze. The finals are scheduled on Thursday, 30 November, in Managua, Nicaragua.

29/11/2023 1 Minute Read

Aussie baseball star Liam Hendricks earns MLB Comeback Player of the Year Award

The 34-year-old right-hander earnt the American League honour after pitching in his final contract year for the Chicago White Sox following a non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis in January. Cody Bellinger (Chicago Cubs) received the National League award.