The World Baseball Classic begins Thursday, bringing together many of the top players in the sport for an international showdown to determine the world’s best baseball nation. Betting on international competitions or exhibition-style events is usually something seasoned bettors approach with caution, but the WBC continues to draw interest, and for those willing to dig deeper, there may be opportunities to find value.
Defending champion Japan returns after capturing the 2023 title, but the early betting markets have not shown overwhelming confidence in another run. Japan currently sits with the second-lowest odds at +360. Instead, early support has poured in for the red, white, and blue, as United States has opened as the betting favorite at approximately +120 across most sportsbooks.
Close behind are the Dominican Republic, listed around +395. One look at their star-studded lineup explains why they are firmly in the mix as a top contender. Venezuela may present one of the more intriguing value plays at 14-to-1, as their roster is loaded with high-end talent on both sides of the ball. Puerto Rico, traditionally a difficult opponent in international play, is drawing attention at 22-to-1, sharing that number with Mexico. Canada checks in at 40-to-1, while South Korea, Italy, and Cuba are all listed at 50-to-1. Beyond that tier, the remainder of the field consists of long-shot underdogs unlikely to attract significant action.
Historically, Japan has dominated this event, winning three of the last five World Baseball Classics, including the memorable victory over the United States in the 2023 final. Team USA has captured the title just once, in 2017, despite often fielding elite rosters.
This year’s tournament also features the sport’s two biggest stars on opposite sides. Team USA will be led by captain Aaron Judge, while Japan counters with two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani. The Americans boast a deep, intimidating pitching staff and a relentless lineup, while Japan brings elite arms and championship pedigree.
While rushing to place futures bets may not be advisable, creative bettors could consider long-shot teams with the intent to hedge later. Still, given the talent assembled, it is difficult to bet against Team USA and its imposing collection of superstars.