Red Sox Have Eight Players Appearing In The World Baseball Classic Semifinals originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

As the 2026 World Baseball Classic reaches the semifinals, eight Boston Red Sox players remain in contention with their national teams: the United States, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic, and Italy.

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For Team USA, outfielder Roman Anthony has been a steady force in the lineup. The young slugger has gone 6-for-19 with one home run, six RBIs, and four walks so far in the tournament. His standout play came against Mexico in pool play, where he launched a 417-foot three-run homer that proved decisive in a 5-3 victory.

Teammate Garrett Whitlock has shone in relief, securing Team USA’s only save so far while adding a hold in two appearances, both protecting slim leads. He closed out the win over Mexico, demonstrating his reliability in high-pressure spots.

Venezuela boasts three Red Sox players who have contributed offensively and on the mound. Outfielder Wilyer Abreu provided a pivotal boost in the quarterfinals against Japan on Saturday night, smashing a go-ahead three-run homer to secure advancement.

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First baseman Willson Contreras has added timely hits, including an RBI single against the Dominican Republic’s Sandy Alcantara. Starter Ranger Suarez anchored Venezuela’s rotation with a strong outing in pool play, helping stabilize the pitching staff during crucial games.

Brayan Bello, representing the Dominican Republic, made his mark in a single dominant start against Israel during pool action. He tossed five innings, allowing just one run on one hit with seven strikeouts and no walks, contributing to a lopsided win.

Italy’s improbable run features reliever Greg Weissert, who has been a shutdown closer with multiple saves, including one in an upset over Team USA and a five-out effort against Puerto Rico in the quarterfinals (1 2/3 scoreless innings, two strikeouts). Catcher Mickey Gasper has provided depth for Italy behind the plate as a mid-tourney addition, supporting the team’s defensive efforts in limited action as Italy’s defied expectations to reach this stage.

These performances have not only aided their countries but also offered a glimpse of Boston’s talent depth heading into the MLB season.

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The Red Sox are collectively crushing it at the WBC.

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