Giants' Luis Arraez Sets WBC Record with Two-Home Run Game for Venezuela

Arraez, known more for his contact hitting, hit two home runs to lead Venezuela to an 11-3 win over Israel in the World Baseball Classic.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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San Francisco Giants outfielder Luis Arraez, who is known more for his contact hitting than power, hit two home runs to lead Venezuela to an 11-3 win over Israel in World Baseball Classic pool play action. Arraez's performance made him the first player in WBC history to have two multi-home run games in the tournament.

Why it matters

Arraez's power display was unexpected, as he is considered one of the best pure hitters in Major League Baseball but has never been known for his home run prowess. His performance highlights the competitive nature of the World Baseball Classic and the ability of players to elevate their game on the international stage.

The details

Arraez started the game with a double in the first inning to bring home a run, then hit a solo home run in the fifth inning to extend Venezuela's lead to 5-1. In the sixth inning, he hit a three-run home run, making history as the first player to have two multi-home run games in WBC play. Arraez finished the game with three hits and five RBIs.

  • Arraez hit a double in the bottom of the first inning.
  • Arraez hit a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth inning.
  • Arraez hit a three-run home run in the bottom of the sixth inning.

The players

Luis Arraez

A San Francisco Giants outfielder who is known more for his contact hitting than power, but put on a power display in the World Baseball Classic for Venezuela.

Ronald Acuña Jr.

A Venezuelan outfielder who scored on Arraez's double in the first inning.

Miguel Cabrera

A Venezuelan baseball player who holds the record for most home runs in World Baseball Classic play with six, a record Arraez is now closing in on.

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What they’re saying

“This wasn't Arráez's first multi-home run game in the WBC, believe it or not. It was his second. The player considered the best contact hitter in the Majors became the first player in the history of the tournament to have two multi-home run games.”

— Sarah Langs, MLB.com reporter (MLB.com)

What’s next

Venezuela will look to continue their strong start in the World Baseball Classic as they aim to advance to the elimination round. Arraez's power display has raised expectations for the team, and they will need to maintain their momentum to secure a spot in the next round.

The takeaway

Luis Arraez's unexpected power surge in the World Baseball Classic shows that even the best contact hitters can elevate their game on the international stage. His performance highlights the competitive nature of the tournament and the ability of players to surprise fans with unexpected displays of skill.