Venezuela’s hero: Maikel Garcia named MVP of WBC 2026

Venezuela’s national team was crowned champion of the 2026 World Baseball Classic, marking the first time the South American nation has lifted the trophy. The team relied on several key players to secure the victory over the United States in the final.

Venezuela took an early lead in the game, and although Team USA managed to tie it in the eighth inning, Eugenio Suárez delivered a clutch double to restore the advantage and ultimately seal the win.

Who was the MVP of the 2026 World Baseball Classic?

After an authoritative run through the tournament, Venezuela claimed the title, with Maikel García named the Most Valuable Player.

García emerged as one of the most important pieces of the Venezuelan squad throughout the 2026 World Baseball Classic, playing a key role in helping his country secure its first championship in tournament history. He also contributed in the final with an RBI and finished the tournament as one of Venezuela’s standout performers.

World Baseball Classic MVPs by year

• 2006 - Daisuke Matsuzaka (Japan)
• 2009 - Daisuke Matsuzaka (Japan)
• 2013 - Robinson Canó (Dominican Republic)
• 2017 - Marcus Stroman (United States)
• 2023 - Shohei Ohtani (Japan)
• 2026 - Maikel García (Venezuela)

Related stories

MLB

When is MLB Opening day 2026?

MLB

Dodger Stadium's field surrenders to Ohtani's commercial appeal

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.