By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
Eight members of the Los Angeles Angels organization are set to take part in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, showcasing the club’s international presence as players represent countries from across the globe.
The tournament, one of baseball’s premier global events, will feature Angels players competing for teams in Asia, the Caribbean, Europe and the Americas.
Headlining the Angels’ Delegation
Among the most prominent Angels players participating is starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi, who will represent Japan. Kikuchi joins a Japanese roster that traditionally enters the tournament as one of the favorites.
Infielder Yoán Moncada will suit up for Cuba, bringing veteran experience and power to the Cuban national team. Meanwhile, Matthew Lugo is set to represent Puerto Rico, adding depth to a roster that has consistently been competitive in recent World Baseball Classic tournaments.
A Global Group of Talent
Several other Angels players will also represent their home countries when the international competition begins.
Outfielder Gustavo Campero will play for Colombia, while pitcher Samy Natera Jr. is slated to compete for Mexico.
Additional Angels players confirmed for the tournament include:
- Najer Victor – Great Britain (Pitcher)
- Lucas Ramirez – Brazil (Outfielder/Infielder)
- Camden Minacci – Italy (Pitcher, Designated Pitcher Pool)
- Francis Texido – Cuba (Pitcher, Designated Pitcher Pool)
The “designated pitcher pool” designation allows teams to carry extra pitchers during the tournament to help manage workloads and protect arms throughout the competition.
International Baseball on Display
The World Baseball Classic has grown into one of the sport’s most anticipated events, drawing top talent from Major League Baseball and professional leagues worldwide. For the Angels organization, the strong representation reflects the increasingly international makeup of the game.
For fans, it also offers a preview of the diverse talent within the Angels system, with both established major leaguers and rising prospects taking the global stage.
With players representing eight different countries, the Angels will have a presence across multiple WBC rosters when the tournament begins — giving the club a truly worldwide footprint in one of baseball’s biggest events.