Ozzie Albies hits first walk-off home run in WBC history

Netherlands defeats Nicaragua 4-3 in dramatic comeback

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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In a thrilling World Baseball Classic matchup, Ozzie Albies of the Netherlands hit a dramatic, two-run walk-off home run in the bottom of the 9th inning to defeat Nicaragua 4-3. Albies' blast marked the first walk-off homer in WBC history, capping a late-inning comeback for the Netherlands squad.

Why it matters

The World Baseball Classic is a prestigious international baseball tournament that showcases top talent from around the globe. Albies' historic walk-off hit not only gave the Netherlands a crucial victory, but also provided an exciting, memorable moment for the WBC that will be talked about for years to come.

The details

With the Netherlands trailing Nicaragua 3-1 in the bottom of the 9th, Ceddanne Rafaela singled and Xander Bogaerts hit a double to put runners on second and third with two outs. Facing a 0-2 count, Albies then launched a 411-foot, two-run homer to right-center field to win the game for the Netherlands. It was the first walk-off home run in the 15-year history of the World Baseball Classic tournament.

  • The game was played on March 7, 2026 at loanDepot Park in Miami, Florida.
  • The Netherlands was down to its final strike before mounting the 9th inning comeback.

The players

Ozzie Albies

A second baseman for the Atlanta Braves, Albies hit the historic, game-winning walk-off home run for the Netherlands in the 9th inning.

Ángel Obando

The Nicaraguan pitcher who gave up Albies' walk-off homer, last playing professionally in the Nicaraguan Winter League in 2024-25.

Dusty Baker

The manager of the Nicaraguan national team, who decided not to intentionally walk Albies with first base open and the game on the line.

Ceddanne Rafaela

The Netherlands player who singled to spark the 9th inning rally.

Xander Bogaerts

The Netherlands player who hit a double that set the stage for Albies' walk-off heroics.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The Netherlands will look to build on this dramatic victory as they face the Dominican Republic and Israel in their remaining Pool D games.

The takeaway

Ozzie Albies' historic walk-off home run provided an unforgettable moment in World Baseball Classic history, showcasing the international tournament's ability to produce thrilling, high-stakes finishes that captivate baseball fans around the world.