Keller’s Korner - World Baseball Classic

But as always in Keller’s Korner, I research the Jewish angle and must ask: How did the Jewish players perform at the 2026 WBC?

Jewish Players Around the Tournament

Team USA – Alex Bregman

Alex Bregman of the Chicago Cubs represented Team USA but struggled at the plate, going 2‑for‑14 for a .143 average. Several other Jewish American Major Leaguers—including Max Fried of the New York Yankees—opted not to participate in this year’s tournament.

Team Mexico – Rowdy Tellez

Rowdy Tellez, whose mother is Jewish and father is of Mexican descent, played first base for Team Mexico. Now with the Atlanta Braves, Tellez finished the tournament hitting .111 (1‑for‑9) with two walks and two strikeouts.

Team Israel: A Tournament to Be Proud Of

Team Israel entered Pool D facing a gauntlet of powerhouse teams—Venezuela and the Dominican Republic—along with Nicaragua and the Netherlands. Despite having fewer Major Leaguers than their opponents, Israel exceeded expectations and finished third in the pool with a 2–2 record, securing automatic qualification for the 2030 WBC.

Brad Ausmus, former All‑Star catcher and current New York Yankees bench coach, managed the squad. He told MLB.com that the team felt tremendous support throughout the tournament:

“We see everything up on the scoreboard — people wearing Israeli T‑shirts or holding the Israeli flag. The hope is more players become interested in playing for Israel. Every time an Israeli team wins a baseball game in a big tournament like this, it helps.”

Israel’s roster featured MLB players Dean Kremer, Harrison Bader, Spencer Horwitz, Garrett Stubbs, and Robert Stock, along with a strong supporting cast. Ausmus, Kevin Youkilis, Jason Marquis, and others brought invaluable Major League experience to the dugout.

Game‑by‑Game Breakdown

Game 1: Venezuela 11, Israel 3

Despite the loss, Israel produced memorable moments.

Harrison Bader (SF Giants) launched a ninth‑inning home run.

RJ Schreck (Toronto Blue Jays) added a solo shot in the sixth.

Zach Levenson (St. Louis Cardinals) collected two hits.

Game 2: Israel 5, Nicaragua 0

A dominant performance.

Dean Kremer (Baltimore Orioles) threw over four scoreless innings to set the tone.

Game 3: Dominican Republic 10, Israel 1

Israel fell to a stacked Dominican lineup.

Spencer Horwitz (Pittsburgh Pirates) provided the lone run with a fourth‑inning home run.

Game 4: Israel 6, Netherlands 2

Israel closed the tournament strong.

Jake Gelof (LA Dodgers) drove in three runs.

Matt Mervis (Washington Nationals) added two RBIs.

Noah Mendlinger (St. Louis Cardinals) led the team with a .455 batting average. The roster featured 30 players: 17 pitchers, two catchers, six infielders, and five outfielders—including a rare brother duo, C.J. Stubbs (Toronto Blue Jays) and Garrett Stubbs (Philadelphia Phillies).

Voices of Team Israel – Pre‑Tournament Reflections

Ari Ackerman - Minority Owner, Miami Marlins

“I’m here to help Team Israel. We’re working on a documentary—this will be the third one. I couldn’t be more excited.”

Jake Gelof - LA Dodgers

First WBC appearance. “I’m soaked. Super excited.”

Adam Gladstone - Director of Baseball Operations

Involved since 2012. “This is my third WBC and every time it is more exciting.”

Noah Mendlinger - St. Louis Cardinals

“Yes, I played in the last WBC. I love representing the flag.”

Matt Mervis - Washington Nationals

From Potomac, Maryland. “It’s an honor to play for Team Israel.”

Barry Weinberg - Head Trainer

With Team Israel since 2012. “It’s the greatest stage in the world.”

Kevin Youkilis - Bench Coach

“It is something special. There’s a lot of energy with our team.”

Michael Hoffman - President & CEO, Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County

“We are excited for them to be here, especially with what is going on in Israel now.”

Randi Salko - COO in Boca Raton

Inspired by her father’s love of the Brooklyn Dodgers.

“This is my first Team Israel game. I feel very welcome. I love that they played both national anthems.”

Final Thoughts

Every player, coach, and fan I met radiated pride and passion for Team Israel. Their 2–2 finish, their resilience, and their spirit made this WBC a meaningful success. With continued growth and visibility, I expect Jewish players to make an even bigger impact at the 2030 World Baseball Classic.

Neil Keller is a Jewish historian. Visit: www.NeilKeller.com to learn who is Jewish.

(Photo Credit: Jerry Parnes)