Cubs' Daniel Palencia leads Venezuela to WBC title

Reliever's improbable rise culminates in championship-clinching save against Team USA

Mar. 18, 2026 at 3:24am

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Daniel Palencia, a Chicago Cubs pitcher who was sent down to the minors just a year ago, closed out Venezuela's 3-2 victory over the United States to win the World Baseball Classic championship. Palencia's journey from the Cubs' Triple-A affiliate to closing out the biggest game of his life for his home country is an inspiring story of perseverance and triumph.

Why it matters

Palencia's performance on the international stage showcases the remarkable turnaround in his career over the past year, going from a struggling major leaguer to Venezuela's most trusted reliever. His success highlights the unpredictable nature of baseball development and the opportunities that can arise when players make key adjustments and seize their chances.

The details

After being sent down by the Cubs in March 2025, Palencia made major strides, cutting his walk rate in half and dominating hitters at the Triple-A level. He earned a mid-season call-up, became the Cubs' closer, and pitched well enough to earn a spot on Venezuela's WBC roster. In the championship game, Palencia recorded a perfect ninth inning, striking out three of the best American hitters to clinch the title for his home country.

  • On March 17, 2025, the Chicago Cubs sent Daniel Palencia to their Triple-A affiliate.
  • In mid-April 2025, Palencia was called up to the major leagues and became the Cubs' closer.
  • In March 2026, Palencia pitched the ninth inning to clinch Venezuela's 3-2 victory over the United States in the World Baseball Classic final.

The players

Daniel Palencia

A Chicago Cubs pitcher who went from being sent down to the minors to closing out Venezuela's World Baseball Classic championship victory over the United States.

Kyle Schwarber

A star American hitter who Palencia faced in the ninth inning of the WBC final.

Gunnar Henderson

Another top American hitter that Palencia struck out to secure Venezuela's WBC title.

Roman Anthony

The final batter Palencia faced, striking him out to clinch the championship for Venezuela.

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What’s next

Palencia is expected to return to the Cubs' bullpen as their primary closer for the 2026 MLB season.

The takeaway

Palencia's remarkable journey from the minor leagues to closing out a World Baseball Classic championship for Venezuela is an inspiring story of perseverance and the unpredictable nature of player development in baseball. His success highlights the opportunities that can arise when players make key adjustments and seize their chances on the biggest stages.