The “Pasquatch” is back in the World Baseball Classic.
Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino will once again suit up for Team Italy in the 2026 WBC, which will take place from March 5-17, 2026.
Pasquantino will bring his power bat and colorful personality to one of the sport’s premier events for the second time. He represented Italy in the 2023 WBC, getting a chance to connect with his family’s Italian roots while playing under former Team Italy manager Mike Piazza.
Pasquantino went 4-for-20 in the 2023 event for Italy, which finished second in Pool A before losing to eventual champion Japan in the quarterfinals. Italy will be part of Pool B in 2026 with the U.S., Mexico, Great Britain and Brazil. The country’s 2023 roster included several Major Leaguers, including Brewers outfielder Sal Frelick, Cubs infielder Nicky Lopez and Cardinals pitcher Andre Pallante.
In MLB, Pasquantino is a .259 career hitter with a .763 career OPS entering play Wednesday. He drove in a career-high 97 runs in 2024 and helped Kansas City reach the ALDS.