Brothers Willson and William Contreras will represent Team Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, marking the first time siblings have suited up for the country in the tournament. The duo, who previously teamed up in the 2022 All-Star Game, expressed excitement about sharing the field and honoring their family. Venezuela's Pool D campaign begins Friday in Miami against the Netherlands.
Four years after sharing the National League roster in the All-Star Game, Willson Contreras and his younger brother William are preparing to join forces for an extended period in the World Baseball Classic. Willson, 33, enters his first season as the Boston Red Sox first baseman after previously catching for the Chicago Cubs. William, 28, is a catcher for the Milwaukee Brewers and has earned two All-Star selections and Silver Slugger Awards.
This opportunity holds deep personal significance for the brothers, who grew up in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela, with parents Olga, a school janitor, and William Sr., a businessman. As children, Willson and another brother, Willmer, played with baseballs made from wadded paper and tape, often sneaking away from studies despite their parents' long work hours. William once described those times as 'beautiful moments,' though fleeting.
Willson signed with the Cubs in 2009 when William was 11, and the younger brother followed him to training sessions without missing a day. 'I got signed in 2009, and he always followed me to training sessions, and we never missed a day together of working out,' Willson said. 'I think he grew up watching me, how disciplined and dedicated I was to my routine... But now he's one of the best catchers in the big leagues, which makes me proud.'
Their bond strengthened when William joined Willson in Chicago after minor league seasons, including during the Cubs' 2016 World Series victory over Cleveland. Though Willson declined prior WBC invitations for various reasons, playing with William was non-negotiable. 'It's gonna be amazing,' Willson said. 'I think it's going to be a dream come true to represent Venezuela, especially having Mom and Dad in the stands... I just can't wait to share the moment with my brother.'
William, who will share catching duties with Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez, views Willson as his top advisor. 'I'm still the young guy, yeah?' William said. 'If you work hard, you're going to be good. That's my plan, my goals.' Willson expects to play first base or designated hitter in every game. The brothers maintain mutual respect through occasional texts or calls during the season, but look forward to daily clubhouse time. William noted Willson expressed a desire last year to finish his career alongside him.
