In 2006, the World Baseball Classic hit the one of the biggest sports stages on the planet and took the baseball world by storm. It showcased major league talent joining their fellow countrymen to compete for the right to put their nation on the world stage and see who would walk away with the Classic Championship.
With three tournaments already played, two countries have taken the crown, with Japan in 2006 and 2009, and the Dominican Republic in 2013.
The Classic shifts to 2017, but first countries who want to be a part of the 16 teams are playing in qualifying rounds, hoping for the opportunity to represent their homeland.
Back in February, four countries, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and Phillipines competed in Sydney, Australia with Team Australia sealing a spot in the tournament.
Starting on Thursday March 17 – Sunday March 20, Mexicali, Mexico will host Qualifier 2 with with home country Mexico looking to advance, along with the Czech Republic, Germany and Nicaragua and Panama will host and compete in Qualifier 3 along with Colombia, France and Spain. One winner from each qualifying round will land a spot in the classic.
Weekend Schedule
Click Team Name for Roster
Qualifier 2: Mexicali — Estadio B-Air
Game 1: Germany vs. Nicaragua — March 17, 3:30 p.m. ET
Game 2: Czech Republic vs. Mexico — March 17, 10:30 p.m. ET
Game 3: Czech Republic vs. TBD — March 18, 3:30 p.m. ET
Game 4: Mexico vs. TBD — March 18, 10:30 p.m. ET
Game 5: TBD vs. TBD — March 19, 9 p.m. ET
Game 6: TBD vs. TBD — March 20, TBD
Qualifier 3: Panama City — Rod Carew Stadium
Game 1: Colombia vs. Spain — March 17, Time TBD
Game 2: France vs. Panama — March 17, 9 p.m. ET
Game 3: France vs. TBD — March 18, Time TBD
Game 4: Panama vs. TBD — March 18, 9 p.m. ET
Game 5: TBD vs. TBD — March 19, 9 p.m. ET
Game 6: TBD vs. TBD — March 20, 7 p.m. ET
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