Darell Hernáiz to Represent Puerto Rico in 2026 World Baseball Classic

Oakland A's Third Baseman Balances National Pride with Spring Training Competition

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Darell Hernáiz, the 24-year-old third baseman for the Oakland Athletics, has earned a spot on Puerto Rico's roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. This opportunity to represent his home country is a lifelong dream for Hernáiz, who was born in San Juan and spent his early childhood there before moving to El Paso, Texas. Despite the importance of the upcoming spring training as he competes for the starting third base job with the A's, Hernáiz accepted the invitation from manager Yadier Molina after discussions with the A's coaching staff.

Why it matters

Hernáiz's selection to the Puerto Rican national team highlights his rising status in Major League Baseball. As the A's look to rebuild, Hernáiz is seen as a key part of their future, and his performance in the World Baseball Classic could boost his profile and help solidify his role with the team. Additionally, the tournament provides a rare chance for Hernáiz to represent his home country in a high-profile international competition.

The details

Hernáiz will remain in Arizona practicing with the A's until March 1st, when he will report to Puerto Rico's camp in Florida. With stars like Francisco Lindor, Carlos Correa, and Javier Báez unavailable for this year's tournament, Hernáiz could see significant playing time at shortstop or second base in addition to his primary position at third base. He'll be joined on the roster by teammate Carlos Cortés, as well as established players like Nolan Arenado, Heliot Ramos, and Edwin Díaz.

  • Hernáiz received the call from Puerto Rico's manager, Yadier Molina, during the offseason.
  • Hernáiz will remain in Arizona practicing with the A's until March 1st, when he will report to Puerto Rico's camp in Florida.

The players

Darell Hernáiz

A 24-year-old third baseman for the Oakland Athletics who was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico and spent his early childhood there before moving to El Paso, Texas.

Yadier Molina

The manager of the Puerto Rican national team who invited Hernáiz to join the roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Mark Kotsay

The manager of the Oakland Athletics, who encouraged Hernáiz to embrace the opportunity to represent Puerto Rico.

David Forst

The general manager of the Oakland Athletics, who also encouraged Hernáiz to participate in the World Baseball Classic.

Francisco Lindor

A star player who is unavailable for Puerto Rico's team in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

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What they’re saying

“In my head, I was thinking, 'I seek to be part of the next one.' I told myself, 'Hopefully I'm in the big leagues and can be part of the next one.'”

— Darell Hernáiz (newsy-today.com)

“It means a lot. Most of my family still lives there. I'm very proud of it. That was probably my number one dream when I was little. I didn't even know what the big leagues were. But I knew what the Classic was and what it meant to represent Puerto Rico while living there.”

— Darell Hernáiz (newsy-today.com)

“It wasn't an easy decision. Obviously, I'm competing for a job. But I thought it was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. You're playing against the best in the world, so I'll take it one day at a time.”

— Darell Hernáiz (newsy-today.com)

“I feel really good about [our chances]. It's bad not to have those three guys. But it will be fun. The way we play, we do it hard and I think we'll be successful. God willing, we'll get out of the group and have a good run. Maybe surprise the world.”

— Darell Hernáiz (newsy-today.com)

“I know I can be even better than I showed last year. I came into the offseason very motivated and I feel good. I worked on all aspects of my game. I'm ready to demonstrate that and hopefully establish myself this year.”

— Darell Hernáiz (newsy-today.com)

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

Darell Hernáiz's selection to the Puerto Rican national team for the 2026 World Baseball Classic represents a significant milestone in his career, as he balances his desire to represent his home country with the importance of a strong spring training performance as he competes for the starting third base job with the Oakland Athletics. His versatility and potential to contribute at multiple positions could be a key asset for Puerto Rico in the tournament.