Mariners, Reds Hall of Famer named Global Ambassador for 2026 World Baseball Classic

Ken Griffey Jr. will assist with player interviews and provide inside access to all 20 participating teams.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 9:39pm

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Hall of Fame outfielder and Seattle Mariners legend Ken Griffey Jr. will serve as the Global Ambassador for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, Major League Baseball announced. Griffey, a 13-time All-Star, will assist with player interviews and provide inside access to all 20 participating teams.

Why it matters

Griffey's involvement as Global Ambassador is a major boost for the international baseball tournament, as he brings his Hall of Fame pedigree and experience playing and coaching in the WBC to help grow the game globally.

The details

Griffey played in the inaugural WBC with Team USA in 2006, hitting three home runs and leading the tournament with 10 RBIs. He also served as the USA's head hitting coach at the 2023 WBC, assisting manager Mark DeRosa. The previous Global Ambassador of the WBC was Los Angeles Dodgers Hall of Fame manager Tommy Lasorda in 2006 and 2009.

  • Griffey will serve as the Global Ambassador for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
  • Griffey played in the inaugural WBC with Team USA in 2006.
  • Griffey was the USA's head hitting coach at the 2023 WBC.

The players

Ken Griffey Jr.

A Hall of Fame outfielder and Seattle Mariners legend who will serve as the Global Ambassador for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Mark DeRosa

The manager of Team USA at the 2023 World Baseball Classic, who Griffey assisted as the head hitting coach.

Tommy Lasorda

The Los Angeles Dodgers Hall of Fame manager who was the previous Global Ambassador of the WBC in 2006 and 2009.

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What they’re saying

“Growing the game of baseball all over the world is a continuing mission I have. There is so much anticipation around this tournament, so to get the chance to lock in and share how all of these different countries connect with our great game is an opportunity I'm truly excited about.”

— Ken Griffey Jr.

The takeaway

Griffey's appointment as Global Ambassador for the 2026 World Baseball Classic is a significant move that will help raise the profile of the international tournament and further grow the game of baseball worldwide.