Baseball fans are in for a treat when the World Baseball Classic tournament returns in 2026. Japan defeated the U.S. in an epic final in 2023, leaving everyone excited to see the 2026 result.
The World Baseball Classic odds are tight right now, with sportsbooks listing the U.S. as a narrow +210 favorite ahead of Japan at +260 and the Dominican Republic at +450.
The 2026 tournament officially begins March 5, with host duties split among Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo. The championship game is scheduled for March 17 at loanDepot Park in Miami.
2026 World Baseball Classic Odds
| Team | Odds |
|---|---|
| United States | +210 |
| Japan | +260 |
| Dominican Republic | +450 |
| Puerto Rico | +800 |
| Venezuela | +1400 |
| South Korea | +1600 |
| Mexico | +1800 |
| Netherlands | +2000 |
| Colombia | +3500 |
| Cuba | +3500 |
| Panama | +4000 |
| Canada | +5000 |
Our odds calculator can help you break down the following chart. For example, the United States’ +210 favorite status translates to an implied win probability of 32.26%, meaning a $10 bet on the U.S. pays out $31 (your original $10 plus a profit of $21).
Why Is The U.S. Favored In The World Baseball Classic Odds?
First, the U.S. is aiming to reclaim the title after finishing as runners-up in 2023. They will have home-field advantage for at least part of the tournament, which goes a long way, especially when you factor in the rowdiness the Americans might’ve faced in Japan, for example. The playoffs and finals of the tournament are scheduled to be played in Miami.
The United States’ chalk status comes mostly due to its impressive roster of committed players (or anticipated players). Here are two notables who have pledged to play for Team USA at the World Baseball Classic:
• Aaron Judge, OF, New York Yankees (Team Captain)
• Paul Skenes, SP, Pittsburgh Pirates
Regular veterans like Mookie Betts, Trea Turner, and Mike Trout are expected to play for the U.S.A.
Team USA will be managed by Mark DeRosa, who led the team in 2023. The coaching staff includes experienced names like Andy Pettitte and Michael Young.
World Baseball Classic Odds: Best Value Bet
Puerto Rico (+800)
Don’t sleep on Puerto Rico. Finalists in the 2013 and 2017 tournaments, the “Island of Enchantment” will have an exceptional roster for the 2026 tournament. Francisco Lindor will once again serve as the team's captain.
Puerto Rico has a very talented crew, including plenty of veterans who have played in previous tournaments. At +800, this is easily the best value pick of the tourney.
World Baseball Classic Odds: Best Bet
Japan (+450)
If we handicap value and talent, Japan is our best bet at +260.
The Japanese roster is star-studded, featuring MLB two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani, as well as other top talents. Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball Organization is the second-most competitive baseball league in the world after MLB. Japan pumps out talent every year, which is why it’s such a big deal when an unknown Japanese superstar crosses the Pacific and s an MLB team.
With home-field advantage on its side for the first part of the tourney, Japan is a top-tier competitor in the 2026 World Baseball Classic odds.
| Year | First Place | Second Place | Third Place |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Japan | United States | Mexico |
| 2017 | United States | Puerto Rico | Japan |
| 2013 | Dom. Republic | Puerto Rico | Japan |
| 2009 | Japan | South Korea | Venezuela |
| 2006 | Japan | Cuba | South Korea |
Where is the World Baseball Classic?
The 2023 World Baseball Classic will be split among three host countries: Taiwan, Japan and the United States. The finals will be played at LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida.
When is the World Baseball Classic?
The 2023 World Baseball Classic will be played March 8-21, split amongst host countries Taiwan, Japan and the United States.
Who won the last World Baseball Classic?
The United States won the 2017 World Baseball Classic, defeating Puerto Rico in the finals. Japan defeated the Netherlands for third-place.
Can I bet on the World Baseball Classic?
Yes, you can bet on the World Baseball Classic. Betting on this tournament is like betting on any regular baseball game. For more info, check out our How To Bet On Baseball guide.
