Nelson Cruz assures that 90% of the ideal lineup will be present at the World Baseball Classic

Santo Domingo. – A few weeks before the start of the 2026 World Baseball Classic, the general manager of the Dominican team, Nelson Cruz, expressed his optimism by pointing out that nearly 90% of the dream lineup will be part of the roster that will compete in the March tournament. You may be interested in:Bryan de la Cruz is elected Most Valuable Player of the 2025-2026 LIDOM tournament Cruz, who was the protagonist of the painful elimination in 2009 and a key player in the undefeated championship achieved in 2013, understands that the atmosphere currently experienced is very reminiscent of that glorious year, when the team took on the challenge with a winning mentality and without fear. “We have the commitment of the majority of our star players. I estimate that around 90% of the ideal lineup will be available,” said Cruz, also highlighting the integrating role that Juan Soto has played within the group. The manager indicated that this week they expect to receive confirmation from the insurance company regarding the players who are under medical evaluation, which will allow them to define the final list. Even so, he expressed full confidence in the human material that he will deliver to the manager Albert Pujols. “I’m nervous, but at the same time confident. This function has been more bearable now as a manager,” he commented after a meeting held at the MLB office in Santo Domingo. Cruz highlighted that there is a high level of motivation among the players, who have shown genuine interest in representing the country. He emphasized that Pujols’ leadership has been crucial for each member to identify with the tricolor cause. Recalling the team’s early elimination in the 2023 Classic, the former slugger understands that this experience has served as emotional fuel for this new challenge. “That bitter taste is still present and will be a source of momentum. We know the urgency of competing at the highest level in every game and bringing the best possible talent,” he said.

The rotation takes shape

Regarding the pitching staff, Cruz revealed that they have already confirmed the participation of pitchers of the stature of Freddy Peralta, Cristopher Sánchez, Sandy Alcántara, Framber Valdez, Luis Castillo and Luis Severino, which strengthens the planning of the opening rotation. “It’s very gratifying to see that these players don’t need to be convinced, but rather they themselves express their desire to be there,” he added.

Lessons from the Past

Finally, Cruz pointed out that one of the main lessons left by the failure of 2023 is the need to establish clear roles from the beginning. “I learned that you have to be direct with the players and define their role. When they understand their role and feel comfortable with it, the team works better,” concluded the man from Montecristi, who hit 464 home runs in 19 seasons in the Major Leagues. Source: Diario Libre.