Padres Superstar Fernando Tatis Jr. Set to Make WBC Debut

Tatis will represent the Dominican Republic alongside fellow Padres stars Manny Machado and Julio Rodríguez.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 9:15am

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San Diego Padres outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. has committed to play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, representing the Dominican Republic. Tatis, one of the top players in baseball, will be joined by Padres teammate Manny Machado, as well as fellow Dominican stars Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Juan Soto.

Why it matters

Tatis' participation in the WBC is a significant event, as the tournament allows some of the best players in the world to showcase their talents on the international stage. His inclusion on the Dominican Republic roster, alongside other MLB superstars, will generate excitement and interest in the tournament.

The details

Tatis, who is coming off a strong 2026 season in which he recorded 25 home runs, 111 runs scored, and 32 stolen bases, will be making his WBC debut. He will be joined on the Dominican Republic roster by Padres teammate Manny Machado, who has represented the country in the past. The Dominican Republic team is expected to be one of the favorites to win the tournament, with Tatis, Machado, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Juan Soto all set to participate.

  • The 2026 World Baseball Classic will take place from March 5 to March 17.
  • Tatis' commitment to the Dominican Republic roster was announced on January 31, 2026.

The players

Fernando Tatis Jr.

A superstar outfielder for the San Diego Padres, Tatis is one of the best players in Major League Baseball and will be making his WBC debut.

Manny Machado

A fellow Padres star and longtime member of the Dominican Republic national team, Machado is expected to join Tatis on the roster.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

A star infielder for the Toronto Blue Jays, Guerrero Jr. is also set to represent the Dominican Republic in the WBC.

Juan Soto

An outfielder for the San Diego Padres, Soto is another Dominican superstar who will be playing in the WBC.

Julio Rodríguez

An outfielder for the Seattle Mariners, Rodríguez will be Tatis' teammate on the Dominican Republic roster.

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What’s next

Padres fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Manny Machado's official commitment to the Dominican Republic roster, as well as any other Padres players who may be selected to represent their home countries in the WBC.

The takeaway

The participation of superstars like Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Juan Soto in the 2026 World Baseball Classic will generate significant excitement and interest in the tournament, as fans will get to see some of the best players in the game compete on the international stage.