O’Neil Cruz’s strong WBC performance is a good sign for the 2026 season

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 15: Oneil Cruz #15 of Team Dominican Republic bats in the ninth inning during the 2026 World Baseball Classic Semifinals Games between United States and Dominican Republic at loanDepot park on March 15, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Gene Wang - Capture At Media/Getty Images) | Getty Images The regular season is right around the corner and it is a crucial year for Pittsburgh Pirates Center fielder Oneil Cruz. We just saw Cruz participate in the World Baseball Classic where he played very well.

Could this be a sign that the 2026 MLB season will be the best of his carrer ? Cruz played for the Dominican Republic and helped them reach the semifinals, where they lost in a close battle with Team USA at loanDepot Park, home of the Miami Marlins, on March 15. He only played in four games, but he did have some really good moments, giving pride to his countrymen and also for Pirates fans hoping to see more from him this season.

Cruz had a fantastic start for Team Dominican Republic, coming off the bench vs. Team Nicaragua in their first Pool Play game at loanDepot Park on March 6, a 12-3 win. The lefty destroyed a three-run home run in the bottom of the eighth inning, smashing a 91.

4 mph four-seam fastball 116. 4 mph off the bat and sending it 450 feet with a 28-degree launch angle. Cruz got his only start of the tournament in their 10-1 win over Team Israel on March 9 in center field and put on a great performance, with two hits, two walks and an RBI.