Photo essay captures World Baseball Classic's Japan leg from every angle

Photographer Joshua Mellin captured the excitement of Samurai Japan's quest to repeat as World Baseball Classic champions, from Tokyo Tower to shinkansen platforms. The images highlight Japan's biggest baseball stars as they begin the tournament.

A photo essay published by The Japan Times on March 13, 2026, documents the World Baseball Classic's Japan leg from various perspectives. Photographer Joshua Mellin shot images at locations including Tokyo Tower and shinkansen platforms, capturing the atmosphere as Samurai Japan begins its campaign to repeat as WBC champions.

The team features Japan's top baseball stars, such as Shohei Ohtani, Seiya Suzuki, and Munetaka Murakami, who are central to the squad's efforts. The photographs convey the thrill and anticipation surrounding the tournament's start.

This visual feature highlights the excitement of the event, offering baseball enthusiasts a glimpse into the proceedings.

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Realistic illustration of Japan's Samurai Japan pitching in the World Baseball Classic opener, eyeing a second straight title amid cheering crowds.
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World Baseball Classic begins as Japan eyes repeat title

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The 2026 World Baseball Classic begins on March 5, with Japan's Samurai Japan aiming for a second straight title. While Netflix's exclusive streaming has raised concerns over accessibility, the team boasts a powerful lineup and pitching staff as a top favorite.

Baseball fans gathered at Tokyo Dome from early Friday morning ahead of Samurai Japan's opening World Baseball Classic game against Taiwan, set to start at 7 p.m. Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the 2025 World Series MVP, is slated to start for Japan in Pool C. The roster features a record eight Major League Baseball players, including 2023 WBC MVP Shohei Ohtani of the Dodgers.

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As the 2026 World Baseball Classic nears, the tournament will showcase non-MLB players to international audiences. Samurai Japan includes more MLB-affiliated talent than ever, but NPB stars remain key figures to monitor. Veteran pitcher Yusei Kikuchi, 34, makes his Samurai Japan debut, bringing steady leadership.

The United States team in the 2026 World Baseball Classic advanced to the quarterfinals after a surprising loss to Italy, sparking fan outrage over lineup choices and managerial comments. The tournament, marking its 20th anniversary, has seen increased popularity in the US with high viewership for early games. Stars like Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge are participating, contributing to the event's success.

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Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto will represent Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, while teammate Roki Sasaki will sit out due to injury concerns. Yamamoto's participation comes after a stellar 2025 season and World Series MVP performance. The tournament is scheduled for March 5-17 across Japan, Puerto Rico, and the United States.

Defending champion Japan overcame a 3-0 early deficit to beat South Korea 8-6 in Pool C play at Tokyo Dome on March 7, 2026, blasting four home runs—including two from Seiya Suzuki and one from Shohei Ohtani—before pulling ahead for good in the seventh. South Korea, after routing Czechia 11-4 earlier, suffered its first loss of the tournament.

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The 2026 World Baseball Classic kicks off this week with 20 teams competing in baseball's premier international tournament. MLB staff predictions favor the United States to claim the title, defeating defending champions Japan, with Bobby Witt Jr. as the anticipated MVP. The event features star-studded rosters and a packed schedule across multiple venues.

 

 

 

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