Alexei Ramirez, 44, Becomes Oldest Player in World Baseball Classic History

The former MLB All-Star is still chasing his baseball dreams, taking care of his uncle, and inspiring younger players.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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At 44 years old, Alexei Ramirez is the oldest player to ever participate in the World Baseball Classic. The former Chicago White Sox star, who first played in the inaugural 2006 tournament, is back on the field in Puerto Rico, where his baseball journey began as a child. Despite retiring from the majors at 34, Ramirez has continued playing in competitive leagues, including the Cuban National Series, and is now suiting up for his home country in the 2026 WBC.

Why it matters

Ramirez's remarkable longevity and passion for the game inspire younger players, while also highlighting the enduring appeal of baseball in Latin American countries like Cuba and Puerto Rico. His story also underscores the challenges some retired players face in transitioning to life after professional sports, as Ramirez has balanced his playing career with caring for a sick uncle who first introduced him to the sport.

The details

Ramirez, a two-time Silver Slugger and MLB All-Star with the White Sox, has continued playing baseball for the past decade, including stints in the Mexican League and the Cuban National Series, where he was one of the best hitters in 2024-25 at age 42. He's also played in a competitive Sunday sandlot league in Miami and has been dabbling in softball. Ramirez credits his uncle, who first taught him the game as a child in Cuba, as a key reason he's still pursuing his baseball dreams at 44.

  • Ramirez first played in the World Baseball Classic in 2006 at age 24.
  • He signed a 4-year, $8 million deal with the Chicago White Sox in 2007.
  • Ramirez retired from MLB in 2016 at age 34.
  • From 2018-2024, Ramirez played in the Mexican League and the Cuban National Series.
  • Ramirez is now the oldest player to ever participate in the World Baseball Classic in 2026 at age 44.

The players

Alexei Ramirez

A 44-year-old former MLB All-Star shortstop who played for the Chicago White Sox from 2008-2015 and is now the oldest player in World Baseball Classic history.

Hawk Harrelson

The longtime play-by-play announcer for the Chicago White Sox, who was known for his enthusiastic calls of Ramirez's performances.

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What they’re saying

“I just love baseball. I can't give it up.”

— Alexei Ramirez

“I'm taking care of my uncle and his family at the same time. He's the one who first taught me baseball.”

— Alexei Ramirez

“Everybody is like, 'Oh my god,'”

— Alexei Ramirez

What’s next

Ramirez and his Puerto Rican team will continue competing in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, where he hopes to inspire younger players and leave a lasting legacy on the game he loves.

The takeaway

Alexei Ramirez's remarkable career journey, from a young Cuban prospect to an MLB All-Star and now the oldest player in World Baseball Classic history, is a testament to his enduring passion for the game and the power of mentorship and family to keep one's dreams alive, even in retirement.