Скачать или смотреть Hawaii's Rico Garcia to pitch for Puerto Rico on World Baseball Classic

As Major League Baseball’s spring training intensifies, players across the league are temporarily leaving their clubs to compete in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Among them is a Hawaiʻi native set to represent his family heritage on the international stage.

Kapolei native and Saint Louis School graduate Rico Garcia, a former standout at Hawaiʻi Pacific University, will pitch for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic. The 32-year-old right-hander, currently with the Baltimore Orioles, is entering his 11th professional season and sixth at the major league level.

Garcia joins a talented Puerto Rico roster that includes All-Stars such as Nolan Arenado, Edwin Díaz and Seth Lugo. The World Baseball Classic runs from March 5–17.

For Garcia, the opportunity carries personal significance beyond baseball.

“My dad was born there, so he’s telling all his family and friends up there in Puerto Rico,” Garcia said. “Just being able to do this for him, but also for all the Puerto Ricans out there that are from Hawaiʻi or wherever they may be from. Just being able to go out there and represent on the big stage and kind of showcase our talent.”

Garcia said wearing Puerto Rico across his chest is about honoring generations before him.

“There’s so much history that I’m representing,” he said. “Just to be able to represent Puerto Rico in the WBC is truly an honor. I can’t wait to get out there and play with the guys.”

The timing also aligns with what Garcia believes is the best stretch of his career. Coming off what he described as his strongest major league season, he enters the tournament with confidence.

“I definitely feel like the best version of myself today,” Garcia said. “Last year, I had the best season I’ve ever had in the big leagues. Being able to build off that, bring it into the WBC and then into the season this year with the Orioles — I’m excited.”

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