MLB International
Puerto Rico considers withdrawing from 2026 World Baseball Classic over insurance denials
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Team Puerto Rico is contemplating pulling out of the 2026 World Baseball Classic after insurance providers denied coverage to eight to ten key players, including captain Francisco Lindor. The issue stems from stricter underwriting following injuries in the 2023 tournament, complicating roster assembly just days before deadlines. Officials worry about fielding a competitive team, especially as hosts of pool play in San Juan.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred announced that the Dominican Republic national team will play two exhibition games against the Detroit Tigers on March 3 and 4 in Santo Domingo. The events honor the victims of an April nightclub roof collapse that killed over 200 people, including former MLB reliever Octavio Dotel, and will raise funds for the Dominican Red Cross. The games serve as a tune-up for the Dominican team's 2026 World Baseball Classic opener.