Cubs Closer Palencia Wins WBC Gold Medal for Venezuela

Palencia rejoins Cubs after leading Venezuela to World Baseball Classic title

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:52am

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Chicago Cubs closer Daniel Palencia earned the save for Venezuela in the WBC final against the USA, capping off an electric tournament performance. Palencia was emotional on the mound as he recorded the final out, knowing that moment was his. He has rejoined the Cubs, still soaking in the experience of winning the championship for his home country.

Why it matters

Palencia's WBC triumph highlights the global reach and passion of baseball, as players proudly represent their national teams on the world stage. His performance also underscores the Cubs' strong international talent pipeline, with Palencia and other young stars like Moisés Ballesteros contributing to the team's success.

The details

In the WBC final, Palencia pitched for the third time in four days to record the save against the USA. He could tell the American hitters were lost trying to figure out his splitter, and when he struck out Roman Anthony to clinch the title, Palencia started crying on the mound, knowing he had achieved the moment he had envisioned.

  • Palencia recorded the save in Venezuela's semifinal win over Japan.
  • Palencia pitched the save in the WBC final against the USA on March 19, 2026.

The players

Daniel Palencia

A Chicago Cubs closer who earned the save for Venezuela in the WBC final, capping off an electric tournament performance.

Roman Anthony

The USA left fielder who struck out against Palencia to end the WBC final.

Moisés Ballesteros

A 22-year-old Chicago Cubs player who made the team's opening day roster.

Pete Crow-Armstrong

A Chicago Cubs outfielder who played for Team USA in the WBC.

Alex Bregman

A Chicago Cubs third baseman who played for Team USA in the WBC.

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What they’re saying

“I knew that moment was mine. I knew I could do it. I knew he's going to swing and miss. I just knew it. In those moments you have to be romantic with baseball.”

— Daniel Palencia

“I'm going to sleep with it.”

— Daniel Palencia

“That was some of the more fun baseball I've ever been a part of. I really enjoyed playing in front of the different crowds. I think American fans can kind of take something from the joy and the passion, just the energy that's kind of output by these other fan bases. It's a really fun game, and I think they kind of add to the excitement.”

— Pete Crow-Armstrong

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Palencia's WBC triumph showcases the global appeal of baseball and the Cubs' strong international talent pipeline, as young stars like Palencia and Ballesteros contribute to the team's success.