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Record Attendance at 2026 World Baseball Classic Sparks Format Debate

3/19/2026

47 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The World Baseball Classic (WBC) set attendance records in 2026, drawing 1,619,839 fans, a 24% rise.
The Classic has been held during spring training since 2006.
Rob Manfred, MLB Commissioner, said a midseason format could boost the event's appeal.
John Smoltz, former player, suggested the midseason format would better showcase international talent.
The next WBC is slated for 2029 or 2030, with discussions about 2028 Olympics influencing scheduling.

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Story summary

The World Baseball Classic (WBC) set attendance records in 2026, drawing 1,619,839 fans, a 24% rise.
The Classic has been held during spring training since 2006.
Rob Manfred, MLB Commissioner, said a midseason format could boost the event's appeal.
John Smoltz, former player, suggested the midseason format would better showcase international talent.
The next WBC is slated for 2029 or 2030, with discussions about 2028 Olympics influencing scheduling.