Sandy Alcantara willing to pitch for the Dominican Republic in 2026 WBC

MIAMI, FL - With the 2026 World Baseball Classic inching closer and closer, Miami Marlins starting pitcher Sandy Alcantara is one of the top names to potentially join the Dominican Republic. The DR will once again be in Pool D and play their games at loanDepot park in Miami. On Monday, Fish On First asked Alcantara about the possibility of joining the DR in the upcoming tournament.

Alcantara said that he has not yet been approached about pitching for his home country, but that he would immediately say yes. "I'm here. So if they want to call me, I'm ready," Alcantara said.

In the 2023 installment of the World Baseball Classic, Alcantara pitched the team's opening game against Venezuela in Miami. In his lone start, Alcantara went 3 2/3 innings and allowed three runs on five hits, walked three and struck out two.

"It was an incredible experience," said Alcantara. "A lot of fans, especially latin fans. It's something that makes you feel more comfortable and gives you more energy. I think everything was great last WBC and hopefully I can have another opportunity."

Alcantara was coming off his 2022 All-Star season and became the first reigning Cy Young Award winner to pitch for his home country.

"I think everything in general," said Alcantara when asked what stood out the most about the experience. "The chemistry, the players that you meet there and the fun that you have. Playing the same sport that lot of all star players participate in is cool, so it's something that makes me feel even happier."

The Dominican Republic was unable to advance passed the first round in the last World Baseball Classic as they lost to Venezuela and Puerto Rico. 

This season, Alcantara has struggled, posting a 7.99 ERA, 5.37 FIP, 7.3 K/9 and 5.0 BB/9 through 41 2/3 innings pitched this season. His next scheduled start is on Friday, May 23 against the Los Angeles Angels at 9:40 pm.