If you’re grinding the World Baseball Classic (WBC) events in MLB The Show 26, picking the right players can make or break your run. Whether it’s smashing bombs, locking down defense, or dominating on the mound, the following picks give you the best chance to compete at the highest level.

The Ultimate Reward & Collection Picks

Maikel Garcia (94 OVR – WBC MVP)

The top-tier third baseman you can unlock by collecting 142 WBC cards. Garcia is elite all around – fantastic contact, great speed, and reliable defense. If you’re going for the ultimate WBC squad, he’s non-negotiable.

Fernando Tatis Jr. (92 OVR)

The launch collection reward, unlocked at 110 WBC cards. Tatis Jr. brings a glitchy, high-speed swing and insane athleticism, perfect for early-event lineups where every run counts.

Julio Rodríguez (91 OVR)

Available via Chase Pack 1, he’s your speed demon in the outfield. With top-end range and quick acceleration, he’s ideal for covering massive WBC stadiums and turning potential extra-base hits into outs.

Clayton Kershaw (90 OVR)

A left-handed starter you can grab through Ranked program paths. Kershaw’s control and movement make him a go-to choice for shutting down tough lineups.

Top Pitching Selections

Shohei Ohtani (87 OVR)

The WBC Deluxe Edition/Choice Pack pick. Ohtani is rare because he’s two-way – you can start him on the mound and hit him in the lineup simultaneously. His deceptive delivery and competitive pitch mix make him a must-have for long-term play.

Kenley Jansen (87 OVR)

A bullpen monster with a killer sinker, cutter, and slider combo. High-tier relievers like Jansen resist the power creep better than most position players, making him essential for closing tight games.

Eduardo Rodriguez (89 OVR)

The 100-star WBC Recap Program reward. Rodriguez pairs a cutter-sinker with a sharp circle change, creating late movement that confuses hitters and racks up strikeouts.

Premium Power & Contact Hitters

Munetaka Murakami (90 OVR)

A right-handed power hitter built to crush pitches. Early in WBC events, he’s your go-to slugger against tough matchups.

Travis Bazzana (88 OVR)

Earned at 90 points in the Pool C Program. He’s a versatile second baseman with smooth defense and a swing that gets the job done in clutch situations.

Nolan Arenado (89 OVR)

A late-track multi-pool reward who’s a defensive wall at the corner. Solid power makes him a balanced two-way contributor.

Jarren Duran (87 OVR)

Speedster and high-tier utility outfielder. Great for pinch-running, covering gaps in the outfield, or slotting into theme teams without losing performance.

When building your WBC squad, balance power, speed, and pitching control. High-contact hitters like Garcia and Murakami dominate early events, while versatile pitchers like Ohtani and Kershaw let you rotate effectively without fatiguing your bullpen. Don’t overlook relievers – they can carry games in tight situations.